Constraints in Design Processes - an investigation of problems and potentials relating to design methodology

By PhD Fellow Sidse Ansbjerg Bordal

Based on this immanent paradox the project investigates how constraints from a methodological perspective are included in and work in design processes. The project will apply the classic definition of the design concept marked by a process result that has visual/actual characteristics. This definition makes design an interesting context through which to conduct the investigation in that the weighting of function and aesthetics places the work of the designer in the borderland between artistic work and classic problem solving linking the concept of constraint to the question of the ‘structuredness ‘ of the design problem. By applying design methodological basic research the project will produce varied knowledge about constraints in design processes with the aim to support method development and increase knowledge from practice within the design profession. This will be achieved by creating a typological model which conceptualises various types of constraints and clarifies how they are included in and handled in design processes as well as how they contribute actively to the creation of design problems and opportunity spaces. The results of the project will be relevant for the design profession and will support the theoretic foundation for the current trend that the methods of the design profession are increasingly used across disciplines and fertilises other practical fields.