Many design methods are unconsciously used in creative processes (Lindemann, 2003). However understanding design methods better, gives the opportunity to improve the design process by applying adequate methods more consciously (Andreasen, Hansen, & Cash, 2015).
Even though unconscious design methods are processed much faster, they can lead to ineffectiveness (Lindemann, 2003). By making use of adequate methods, the process can lead to a more satisfying outcome. Furthermore the design process becomes more approachable to other disciplines working with a designer.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Design Methods
2.1. Description of the applied design methods
Phase 1: Exploratory Research
Phase 1: Interviews
Phase 1: Artefact analysis
Phase 1: Brainstorm Graphic Organizers
Phase 2: Secondary research
Phase 3: Design Workshop
2.2. Application and evaluation of design methods
Phase 1: Exploratory Research
Phase 1: Interview
Phase 1: Artefact analysis
Phase 1: Brainstorm Graphic Organizers
Phase 2: Secondary research
Phase 3: Design Workshop
3. Design process
3.1. Preparatory work
3.2. Project schedule
3.3. Process description
Phase 1: Planning, Scoping and Definition
Phase 2: Exploration, Synthesis and Design Implications
Phase 3: Concept Generation and early Prototype iteration
Research Objective and Focus Areas
The primary objective of this work is to improve the design process by applying selected methodological frameworks more consciously, moving away from unconscious usage to achieve more effective and satisfying outcomes. The study documents the practical application of these methods within a specific case study to refine the project direction.
- Methodological classification of design process phases.
- Application of exploratory research and artefact analysis.
- Strategic shift from initial design briefs based on market research.
- Utilizing participatory design through workshops to generate new concepts.
- Integration of SWOT analysis to identify viable development paths.
Excerpt from the Book
Phase 1: Exploratory Research
Visiting The case company was the first experience for the project team with the design task. It included a Touchstone Tour with a guided walk through the manufacturing facilities, archives, an artefact analysis and a follow-up interview. The exploratory research was needed to plan the project, set the project scope and get a general understanding of the company. This included not only facts, but experience with different senses by touching the product, seeing how it’s made and descriptions that were not only fact driven, but contained a lot of emotions.
This method is extensive and covers several areas that help in the beginning to get a good overview. It is very useful to form own opinions by experience which not only rely on facts, but also on emotional descriptions. The project team found the method very helpful as it delivers insights facts cannot show and gives a better understanding of the situation. From a design point of view it is interesting to be aware of the products, the shapes they use and how they are made. Moreover, observations can be made first-hand while visiting the manufacturing site and archives of the case company. Photos would not have captured the atmosphere that the visit offered. This method was used in the first phase of the design process instead of the second phase as recommended by Martin and Hanington (2012). However, the project group did not feel disadvantaged by applying the method as first step in their design process. It was an essential inquiry to apprehend their expectations and needs for the future of the company.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: This chapter highlights the necessity of consciously applying design methods to improve creative processes and design outcomes.
2. Design Methods: This section presents and classifies the design methods used in the project, while evaluating their practical usability and application.
3. Design process: This chapter documents the project's practical execution, from initial preparation and scheduling to the final conceptual iteration and synthesis.
Keywords
Design Methods, Exploratory Research, Artefact Analysis, Design Process, Secondary Research, Prototyping, SWOT Analysis, Participatory Design, Creative Process, Industrial Design, Case Study, Methodology, Product Development, Design Implications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fundamental focus of this publication?
The publication focuses on the importance of applying structured design methods consciously rather than unconsciously, to improve the effectiveness and quality of the design process.
Which thematic areas are primarily covered?
The core themes include design process phases, research methodologies such as interviews and artefact analysis, market evaluation, and the participatory generation of design concepts.
What is the primary research goal?
The goal is to demonstrate how a methodical approach—incorporating exploratory research, secondary research, and participatory workshops—can lead a project team to refine its design strategy based on evidence rather than intuition.
Which scientific methods were applied?
The work utilizes a combination of qualitative research methods including structured interviews, artefact analysis, secondary research (market evaluation), and SWOT analysis.
What is addressed in the main body?
The main body details the classification of design methods, their practical application within a case study, the project timeline, and the step-by-step description of the design process phases.
Which keywords characterize the work?
Key terms include Design Methods, Exploratory Research, Design Process, Prototyping, and SWOT Analysis.
How did the team decide to deviate from the initial design brief?
The team used secondary research to analyze the market and conducted a design workshop, which revealed that the initial focus on home office supplies was not promising, leading them to pivot toward luxury packaging.
What role did the SWOT analysis play in the project?
The SWOT analysis allowed the team to objectively assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case company, helping them shift their focus from an unpromising market to a niche with higher potential.
- Quote paper
- Anna Lena Bischoff (Author), 2016, Methods at work. Conscious application of design methods for successful product development, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/315238
