Artifactual Relations in UCD
Abstract
This explorative article presents theoretical and methodological implications of User Centered Design (UCD) from a perspective of socio material-relations and a theory of performative artifacts. The process of “asking users” is rarely treated as a design artifact that can be interrogated in and of itself. The article introduces a perspective on UCD as a “material-relational activity”. Thus, through the lens of a failed workshop, the article takes a closer look at the shaping properties artifacts, and how artifacts interact and produce results.
Artifactual Relations in UCD
This explorative article presents theoretical and methodological implications of User Centered Design (UCD) from a perspective of socio material-relations and a theory of performative artifacts. The process of “asking users” is rarely treated as a design artifact that can be interrogated in and of itself. The article introduces a perspective on UCD as a “material-relational activity”. Thus, through the lens of a failed workshop, the article takes a closer look at the shaping properties artifacts, and how artifacts interact and produce results.