Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
A SYSTEMATIC APPROACH OF DESIGN THEORIES USING GENERATIVENESS AND ROBUSTNESS
Hatchuel, Armand; Le Masson, Pascal; Reich, Yoram; Weil, Benoit
Type:
Year:
2011
Editor:
Culley, S.J.; Hicks, B.J.; McAloone, T.C.; Howard, T.J. & Reich, Y.
Author:
Series:
ICED
Section:
Design Theory and Research Methodology
Page(s):
87-97
Abstract:
In this paper we build a systematic comparison of several formal design theories: General Design Theory, Axiomatic Design, Coupled Design Process, Infused Design and C-K theory. Each theory offers principles as well as mathematical assumptions and establishes propositions that we analyze through two main criteria: i) their generativeness, i.e. their ability to produce design proposals that are different from existing solutions and design standards; ii) their robustness, i.e. their ability to produce designs that resist variations of context. Using such framework, and focusing on the evolution of the mathematical assumptions of each theory, it can be shown that the development of design theories does not reflect radically different point of views about design. Instead, there is an evolution towards more generality and less dependency on predefined objects. They form altogether a consistent body of knowledge that has aimed to increase the generativeness of design without losing its robustness. Thus, Design science can be seen as the science of “generativity”. The evolution of design theories is illustrated by applying each of them to the same brief: the design of a new camping chair.
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