In the introduction to this book, and to this chapter in particular, the polymer engineering process is presented from a holistic point of view, i.e., with all of its material sources and ramifications. In the sections that follow, this point of view will be demonstrated on the basis of a number of examples of structural component development from the recent past; some of these projects extend into the future as well. Following an introductory text, each example of component development will be supplemented by a qualitative evaluation table with explanations as required. These tables are also qualitative checklists for avoiding future errors based on the example of the specific application considered in each case.