Abstract
We combine the hypothesis of "generic design" with that of different "forms" of designing. From a cognitive viewpoint, we adhere to the generic-design hypothesis: there are both significant similarities between the design activities implemented in different application domains and crucial differences between these and other cognitive activities. Yet, we suppose that the nature of the artifact under design introduces specificities in the corresponding design activities. This paper is concerned with the dimensions underlying such different forms of designing. We propose a series of candidates for dimensions. The material presented sketches a number of possible directions that need further elaboration.
Keywords
analysis of design processes, design cognition, design theory and research, generic design, psychological theory building in the design field
Citation
Visser, W. (2006) Both Generic Design and Different Forms of Designing, in Friedman, K., Love, T., Côrte-Real, E. and Rust, C. (eds.), Wonderground - DRS International Conference 2006, 1-4 November, Lisbon, Portugal. https://dl.designresearchsociety.org/drs-conference-papers/drs2006/researchpapers/66
Both Generic Design and Different Forms of Designing
We combine the hypothesis of "generic design" with that of different "forms" of designing. From a cognitive viewpoint, we adhere to the generic-design hypothesis: there are both significant similarities between the design activities implemented in different application domains and crucial differences between these and other cognitive activities. Yet, we suppose that the nature of the artifact under design introduces specificities in the corresponding design activities. This paper is concerned with the dimensions underlying such different forms of designing. We propose a series of candidates for dimensions. The material presented sketches a number of possible directions that need further elaboration.