funktionsgerecht

Funktionsgerecht is a German adjective describing something that is appropriate for the function it is intended to perform. In design, engineering and policy contexts, the term signals that form, structure or procedure is chosen to reliably support the required functionality rather than favor appearance or superficial compliance.

Etymology: The word combines Funktion (function) and gerecht (proper or appropriate), with the suffix -gerecht indicating suitability. As an attributive adjective it can take inflected forms such as funktionsgerechtes Design, funktionsgerechte Bedienung, or funktionsgerechte Systeme.

Applications: In product design, "funktionsgerecht gestalten" means designing products to be usable and effective for their intended tasks. In accessibility and inclusive design, it stresses that controls, interfaces and information are usable by people with a range of abilities. In software engineering, functional suitability and user tasks are prioritized; tests verify that the software supports real user workflows. In procurement and regulation, requirements may specify "funktionsgerechte" performance or service delivery.

Limitations: The term is descriptive and subjective; its interpretation depends on context and user needs, and it is often complemented by more specific criteria such as usability, reliability or safety.

See also: ergonomics, user-centered design, inclusive design, function over form, functional requirement.