Making design research relevant for design practice: What is in the way?

Marieke Zielhuis

doi:10.1016/j.destud.2021.101063

Marieke Zielhuis

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.destud.2021.101063

Copy DOI

Abstract

Knowledge from academic design research projects does not always help design professionals to actually strengthen their work. Based on a multi-case study, this paper describes how researchers view the impact of their design research projects on design practice and what they do to achieve this. Even in projects where impact on design practice is a stated ambition, several challenges can stand in the way, such as a lack of funding opportunities and unclarity on the needs of design practice. The paper provides tips for researchers and funding parties who want to inform design practice by research, including tips to operationalize design practice roles. • Professional design practice as an audience is a blind spot in funding. • Involving design professionals is not sufficient to impact design practice. • Four tips to impact design practice are provided for researchers and funding parties.

Highlights

IntroductionBackground of respondentsCognition & MediaInformation Systems (2Â, 7 interviews architecturePsychology, DesignBehavioural, pairs and 3 IndustrialSocial psychologyManagement individually)
Background of respondentsDepartment of respondents Researchers 17 InteractiveCognition & MediaInformation Systems (2Â, 7 interviews architecturePsychology, DesignBehavioural, pairs and 3 IndustrialSocial psychologyManagement individually)
Based on a multi-case study, this paper describes how researchers view the impact of their design research projects on design practice and what they do to achieve this

Summary

Introduction

Background of respondentsCognition & MediaInformation Systems (2Â, 7 interviews architecturePsychology, DesignBehavioural, pairs and 3 IndustrialSocial psychologyManagement individually). Serious game development interface technology company: behavioural. & user interface self-management and technology knowledge sharing. & PhD in design company that develops

Objectives

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion