Abstract
Compared to the “market model,” little theorizing has been done to produce a model of design for social need. This paper discusses a process of social service intervention that can address the product needs of vulnerable populations. This process follows a problem-solving approach whereby a professional or professional team works collaboratively with clients to improve their quality of life. A number of options for how product designers might work with such an intervention team are explored. The authors then outline a program of research. A multi-faceted approach to address questions related to social design would include survey research and interviews, content analysis of archival data, the development of case studies, participant observation, and research that centers on the development and evaluation of socially responsible products. Questions related to the education of a social designer are also considered.
Citation
Margolin, V., and Margolin, S. (2002) A ‘social model’ of design: issues of practice and research, in Durling, D. and Shackleton, J. (eds.), Common Ground - DRS International Conference 2002, 5-7 September, London, United Kingdom. https://dl.designresearchsociety.org/drs-conference-papers/drs2002/researchpapers/55
A ‘social model’ of design: issues of practice and research
Compared to the “market model,” little theorizing has been done to produce a model of design for social need. This paper discusses a process of social service intervention that can address the product needs of vulnerable populations. This process follows a problem-solving approach whereby a professional or professional team works collaboratively with clients to improve their quality of life. A number of options for how product designers might work with such an intervention team are explored. The authors then outline a program of research. A multi-faceted approach to address questions related to social design would include survey research and interviews, content analysis of archival data, the development of case studies, participant observation, and research that centers on the development and evaluation of socially responsible products. Questions related to the education of a social designer are also considered.