Existing pole-assignment methods are inadequate as a complete design technique for linear multivariable systems since other design factors such as zero positions, steady-state characteristics, integrity, etc., must also be taken into account. This paper extends an existing pole-assignment technique, employing unity-rank feedback, to account for such additional design features. For annth-order multivariable system withminputs andloutputs, it is shown that there are essentiallym− 1 independent variables available in the design process. When complete state feedback or output feedback withl=nis used, thesem− 1 degrees of freedom are available to meet specifications in addition to pole assignment. When incomplete state feedback or output feedback withlless thannis used, thesem− l degrees of freedom must be shared between pole-assignment and the other design features.