The role of prototypes in design research : overview and cases studies

This book provides a theoretical framework for design researchers interested in developing their research work about and with prototypes. It describes prototypes' multiple definitions and possible functions in the multifaceted landscape of today's design research. Indeed, while the manufacturing and digital evolutions enable and require new types of advanced prototypes, the design evolution as an academic discipline continuously widens its perspectives, fields, and research methods, among which are the prototypes' applications, features, and purposes. The framework originates from an interpretation of these interrelated phenomena and a collection of case studies. Additionally, it defines those criteria that characterize the relation between the research (context, discipline, and general scope) and the prototype (nature and specific aims) and, altogether, it presents an overview of prototypes' roles in design research. Acknowledgements Contents List of Figures 1 Introduction 1.1 Aim 1.2 Area 1.3 Process and Methodology 1.4 Findings References 2 Developing a Data Classification Framework 2.1 Literature Review 2.1.1 Selection and Review of Relevant Literature Sources 2.1.2 Prototypes Beyond Definitions 2.1.3 Data Cards 2.1.4 Parallel Analysis 2.2 Data Classification Framework 2.2.1 Clusters and Taxonomies 2.2.2 Data Mapping 2.3 Grounded Theory-Based Analysis 2.3.1 Coding 2.3.2 Categories and Sub-categories 2.3.3 Themes 2.3.4 Theory 2.3.5 Making Data Digital by Qualitative Data Analysis Software References 3 Making Use of the Research Framework 3.1 Case Studies Framed Through an Interactive Tool 3.1.1 Setting the Second Phase of the Research 3.1.2 Selection of Interviewees and Case Studies 3.1.3 Analysing the Case Studies: An Interactive Tool 3.2 Visualising Relationships 3.2.1 Reading the Whole Picture 3.2.2 Reading Selected Relationships 3.2.3 Highlighting the Trends 3.3 Discussion 3.3.1 About the Phases and Trends of the Research 3.3.2 About the Overview References 4 Prototypes for Speculative Design Research 4.1 Prototypes in Speculative-Intangible/Tangible Design Research 4.1.1 Speculative Intangible Prototypes: Provotypes for the Design of Possible Futures 4.1.2 DIY-Materials Drafts and Demonstrators as Speculative Tangible Prototypes 4.2 Discussion References 5 Prototypes of Tangible Interactions 5.1 Prototypes in the Tangible-Speculative/Concrete Design Research 5.1.1 Integration of Digital Technology for a Jewellery Company 5.1.2 Exploring Possibilities and Affordances of “Medical Jewellery” 5.1.3 Prototyping Internet of Things (IoT) Devices for Co-housing Communities 5.2 Discussion References 6 Prototypes for Industrial Design Research 6.1 Prototypes in the Speculative-Intangible/Tangible Design Research 6.1.1 Exploring Possible Futures with a Large Company 6.1.2 Exploring Technology Potential for User’s Needs 6.2 Prototypes for Industrial Design in Extra-Academic Research 6.2.1 Large Consultancy for an Industrial Partner 6.2.2 Small Studio in a Research Collaboration 6.3 Discussion References 7 Final Considerations on Prototypes in Design Research 7.1 Considerations from the Making of the Framework 7.2 Considerations from the Application of the Framework 7.2.1 Tangible Transition or Not? 7.2.2 Are Visual Representation Tools Prototypes? 7.2.3 Fidelity, a Concept to Count On or Not? 7.3 Limits of the Study 7.4 Extra Considerations and Further Developments 7.4.1 When Does a Prototype Become a Finished Product? 7.4.2 Always Make Use of Prototypes or Not? 7.5 Final Recap References