Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Course Reflection 5
The last two classes dedicated to the design presentations went by very quickly. It was interesting to see each group's approach to creating a new line of indoor home products for Coleman. I found the presentation on the energy usage application and the solar curtains most interesting. They were both very well organized and thoroughly researched. Another one that I found interesting was the cooking table. I personally enjoy cooking and entertaining very much and think that the idea is very marketable. The cooking table is also a great "transitional" product for Coleman. Overall, I enjoyed both classes but as I mentioned in my course review, I wish we had some choices on the companies that we designed for. It would make the presentations and design ideas more diverse and interesting.
Reading Reflection 4
Haskett Chapter 9-10
Context for design is a topic that is very interesting due to the flexible nature of design and the design process. Design as explained by Haskett takes many different forms and roles in our lives; however, most often this makes design vague and hard to recognize for users. This invisible or unrecognized nature of design makes it difficult for designers to define their role and the necessity of their work in many cases. Therefore, there is a lack of defined and recognized context for design. As Haskett explains, the need for design and designers is better recognized in large companies and countries that have dedicated resources to the excellence of design but the context is still lost on a smaller scale. It is important to not only recognize and understand design as designers but also to promote its necessity and importance to the public (or users). Professional associations specific to some design fields have already contributed to this goal but I think as designers, we should recognize this goal as a necessity and help to create "context" for our professions.
The last chapter of Haskett focuses on the future of design. Haskett elaborates on the examination of all elements involved in the design process including technology, demographics, markets, contextual changes, and the role of the designer as a whole. As explained in the chapter, the future of design rests on the choices that we as designers make. Whether we design for mass consumption or for the betterment of every day living conditions and life necessities is a choice that must be made by each designer and is a choice that will affect the future of design. Again, Haskett clarifies that the role of design in the future is dependent on the success of the designers in delivering the message of importance and necessity to the users and decision makers.
Context for design is a topic that is very interesting due to the flexible nature of design and the design process. Design as explained by Haskett takes many different forms and roles in our lives; however, most often this makes design vague and hard to recognize for users. This invisible or unrecognized nature of design makes it difficult for designers to define their role and the necessity of their work in many cases. Therefore, there is a lack of defined and recognized context for design. As Haskett explains, the need for design and designers is better recognized in large companies and countries that have dedicated resources to the excellence of design but the context is still lost on a smaller scale. It is important to not only recognize and understand design as designers but also to promote its necessity and importance to the public (or users). Professional associations specific to some design fields have already contributed to this goal but I think as designers, we should recognize this goal as a necessity and help to create "context" for our professions.
The last chapter of Haskett focuses on the future of design. Haskett elaborates on the examination of all elements involved in the design process including technology, demographics, markets, contextual changes, and the role of the designer as a whole. As explained in the chapter, the future of design rests on the choices that we as designers make. Whether we design for mass consumption or for the betterment of every day living conditions and life necessities is a choice that must be made by each designer and is a choice that will affect the future of design. Again, Haskett clarifies that the role of design in the future is dependent on the success of the designers in delivering the message of importance and necessity to the users and decision makers.
Journal 10
Overall Course Reflection
This quarter has been a busy and interesting one for me since it's my first quarter back in school since graduation in 2009. I took Design 200 in the hopes that I could have a good basic review of design concepts and I think the course lectures helped with that. I found that the class is very well organized. The assignments were consistent in nature and easily understood; however, I believe that the difficulty level for the assignments could have been higher. I personally prefer that the reading reflections be discussed in class rather than be posted on a blog. It is more involving to hear what other people think of the information they have read rather than write your own opinion of this information (it's the discussion about the differences in interpretation of the same information that I find interesting and helpful.) I would suggest also to have participation points granted for these class discussions to encourage student participation. This would also allow more time outside of class to focus on some more involved or difficult assignments.
My favorite part of this class was the final project. I think it was a good opportunity to get to know my group members and be involved in the design process. However, since the client (Coleman) was the same for all groups, the presentations became a bit repetitive on a few topics like company ethics and his story. I think it would be a good idea to have a list of different companies that the teams can choose from to make it more challenging and interesting.
Thanks you, Design 200 was enjoyable.
This quarter has been a busy and interesting one for me since it's my first quarter back in school since graduation in 2009. I took Design 200 in the hopes that I could have a good basic review of design concepts and I think the course lectures helped with that. I found that the class is very well organized. The assignments were consistent in nature and easily understood; however, I believe that the difficulty level for the assignments could have been higher. I personally prefer that the reading reflections be discussed in class rather than be posted on a blog. It is more involving to hear what other people think of the information they have read rather than write your own opinion of this information (it's the discussion about the differences in interpretation of the same information that I find interesting and helpful.) I would suggest also to have participation points granted for these class discussions to encourage student participation. This would also allow more time outside of class to focus on some more involved or difficult assignments.
My favorite part of this class was the final project. I think it was a good opportunity to get to know my group members and be involved in the design process. However, since the client (Coleman) was the same for all groups, the presentations became a bit repetitive on a few topics like company ethics and his story. I think it would be a good idea to have a list of different companies that the teams can choose from to make it more challenging and interesting.
Thanks you, Design 200 was enjoyable.
Journal 09
Project Reflection
We began the design process by a brainstorming session where we talked about Coleman's current products and a possible link to a new indoor home goods product. During our discussion in the first class we decided to design a "transitional" product that could potentially be used outside but is mainly geared towards those who move often but will use the product indoors. The HoTToP idea built on Coleman's current expertise on product development and allowed for the sale of a new product alongside other more conventional Coleman products (they could be combined with the HoTToP's storage unit.) By taking advantage of each team member's strong points, we were able to work collaboratively and finish the project successfully.
We took advantage of the various expertise available in the group. Jocef's ability to sketch/draw well allowed us to bring our idea to life through a detailed drawing. My ability to do 3D modeling helped to show our packaging and kiosk design ideas while Miriah's contribution to the design and organization of the PowerPoint made the idea clear to our audience. Lastly, Kris was able to use his background in literature to clearly write and explain our design idea to the class. Overall, we were able to work together to resolve design issues and bring the final design together very well.
Personal Contribution
We all attended every group meeting both in and out of class. During the brainstorming session I contributed to the design process by researching some of the existing Coleman products and discussing any issues that my arise with our design. Also, with the help of Jocef, we did some preliminary sketches that were later turned into 3D models by me (sketches are posted in the PowerPoint but I don't have a copy to post here). The following renderings for the product, packaging, and POS display were developed by the group and produced and rendered by me:
We began the design process by a brainstorming session where we talked about Coleman's current products and a possible link to a new indoor home goods product. During our discussion in the first class we decided to design a "transitional" product that could potentially be used outside but is mainly geared towards those who move often but will use the product indoors. The HoTToP idea built on Coleman's current expertise on product development and allowed for the sale of a new product alongside other more conventional Coleman products (they could be combined with the HoTToP's storage unit.) By taking advantage of each team member's strong points, we were able to work collaboratively and finish the project successfully.
We took advantage of the various expertise available in the group. Jocef's ability to sketch/draw well allowed us to bring our idea to life through a detailed drawing. My ability to do 3D modeling helped to show our packaging and kiosk design ideas while Miriah's contribution to the design and organization of the PowerPoint made the idea clear to our audience. Lastly, Kris was able to use his background in literature to clearly write and explain our design idea to the class. Overall, we were able to work together to resolve design issues and bring the final design together very well.
Personal Contribution
We all attended every group meeting both in and out of class. During the brainstorming session I contributed to the design process by researching some of the existing Coleman products and discussing any issues that my arise with our design. Also, with the help of Jocef, we did some preliminary sketches that were later turned into 3D models by me (sketches are posted in the PowerPoint but I don't have a copy to post here). The following renderings for the product, packaging, and POS display were developed by the group and produced and rendered by me:
Design Group
Monday, May 23, 2011
Journal 8
Design and Accessibility
Accessibility is one of the most important aspects of design. The lecture on Design and Accessibility gave a short introduction of what is accessibility in design, what is universal design, and where you may be able to find examples of this approach to design and production. I chose Design and Accessibility as the topic for my Media Review because I've taken some classes on the subject before and find it to be very interesting. The idea of accessibility and universal design as a basis for the design process which motivates functionality, form, and representation is something that should be taken seriously. Design is a human-centered function and in order for it to achieve the best possible results, it must be easily accessible and functional for its user.
In some design fields such as architecture and interior design, accessibility is often perceived as those requirements called for by the ADA, American with Disabilities Act. ADA requirements are enforced by law in new construction or renovation and therefore are most apparent to users. As a building block to universal design and accessibility, it is important for all designers to be familiar with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. You may access the ADA Standards for Accessible Design 2010 and Guidance on Guidance on the ADA Standards for Accessible Design 2010 by following these links.
Today, most public entities and organizations endeavour to incorporate accessibility and universal design in their daily operations. A good example of these organizations is the National Endowment for the Arts which has developed and published a handbook for Universal designed titled "Design for Accessibility: a Cultural Administrator's Handbook." This publication's goal is to provide an equal opportunity for all users and audiences to be able to access the arts easily and efficiently. As we had spoken earlier in the course, design is not necessarily limited to those things that are physically designed and produced but can also include processes, delivery methods, and more. The NEA handbook is a great example of a holistic approach to accessibility and can be viewed here.
While the requirements of ADA are very important, it is necessary to recognize that accessibility in design is not limited to those required by this Act. Accessibility must be evaluated based on the specific users of a design and the physical abilities of those users. An interesting view of this approach to universal design is presented by Paul Bennett in the following speech where he calls for attention to small details in design. Bennett does not refer to his examples as being "Universally Designed" but the final products are successful due to their ability to respond to the abilities of their users.
Design for accessibility can be integrated into our daily life without taking drastic measures. Since most everything around us is a product of some design process, it is not difficult to see that it is possible to improve the same by incorporating some basic provisions for accessibility. Whether its the handle on your door, the chair you're sitting in, or the desk you're working on, it can be improved and made more functional and accessible with a small change in design. A great example of this is the incorporation of universal design principals in kitchen and bath designs. The following video shows a universally designed kitchen that is appropriate and functional for its users. You can see that the small changes provided in the design of this kitchen provide for the comfort and happiness of the family using the space.
It is exciting to see that today's designers are becoming more concerned with the relationship between their design and the users of their design. Smart Design in Manhattan is a design firm focused on producing designs that are centered around their interactions with the user. The following video is Smart Design's approach to understanding the user's experiences with the public bathroom and re-designing an old idea into a new and improved one.
Dwell presents | The Bathroom Reinvented: Universal Design in Public Bathrooms from gary nadeau on Vimeo.
Accessibility is one of the most important aspects of design. The lecture on Design and Accessibility gave a short introduction of what is accessibility in design, what is universal design, and where you may be able to find examples of this approach to design and production. I chose Design and Accessibility as the topic for my Media Review because I've taken some classes on the subject before and find it to be very interesting. The idea of accessibility and universal design as a basis for the design process which motivates functionality, form, and representation is something that should be taken seriously. Design is a human-centered function and in order for it to achieve the best possible results, it must be easily accessible and functional for its user.
In some design fields such as architecture and interior design, accessibility is often perceived as those requirements called for by the ADA, American with Disabilities Act. ADA requirements are enforced by law in new construction or renovation and therefore are most apparent to users. As a building block to universal design and accessibility, it is important for all designers to be familiar with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. You may access the ADA Standards for Accessible Design 2010 and Guidance on Guidance on the ADA Standards for Accessible Design 2010 by following these links.
Today, most public entities and organizations endeavour to incorporate accessibility and universal design in their daily operations. A good example of these organizations is the National Endowment for the Arts which has developed and published a handbook for Universal designed titled "Design for Accessibility: a Cultural Administrator's Handbook." This publication's goal is to provide an equal opportunity for all users and audiences to be able to access the arts easily and efficiently. As we had spoken earlier in the course, design is not necessarily limited to those things that are physically designed and produced but can also include processes, delivery methods, and more. The NEA handbook is a great example of a holistic approach to accessibility and can be viewed here.
While the requirements of ADA are very important, it is necessary to recognize that accessibility in design is not limited to those required by this Act. Accessibility must be evaluated based on the specific users of a design and the physical abilities of those users. An interesting view of this approach to universal design is presented by Paul Bennett in the following speech where he calls for attention to small details in design. Bennett does not refer to his examples as being "Universally Designed" but the final products are successful due to their ability to respond to the abilities of their users.
Design for accessibility can be integrated into our daily life without taking drastic measures. Since most everything around us is a product of some design process, it is not difficult to see that it is possible to improve the same by incorporating some basic provisions for accessibility. Whether its the handle on your door, the chair you're sitting in, or the desk you're working on, it can be improved and made more functional and accessible with a small change in design. A great example of this is the incorporation of universal design principals in kitchen and bath designs. The following video shows a universally designed kitchen that is appropriate and functional for its users. You can see that the small changes provided in the design of this kitchen provide for the comfort and happiness of the family using the space.
It is exciting to see that today's designers are becoming more concerned with the relationship between their design and the users of their design. Smart Design in Manhattan is a design firm focused on producing designs that are centered around their interactions with the user. The following video is Smart Design's approach to understanding the user's experiences with the public bathroom and re-designing an old idea into a new and improved one.
Dwell presents | The Bathroom Reinvented: Universal Design in Public Bathrooms from gary nadeau on Vimeo.
Course Reflection 4
The last four classes were dedicated to working with our group members on Assignment 05. The team work experience is definitely interesting. Though difficult at times to find a common ground between the 4 members of the group, I think that the experience as a whole has been a positive one. Our design of the portable to permanent stove is unique and fun. I think that we, as a group, did a good job of taking advantage of each team member's strong points and had a great collaborative work environment. I look forward to presenting our idea to the class and receiving feedback on our design.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Reading Reflection 3
Cradle to Cradle by McDonough - Chapter 1-6
Cradle to Cradle is unique in its approach to identifying the issues of sustainability and environmental awareness. The author begins by describing the history of human development in terms of production and how we have come to identify our current methods of production as being futile to our own survival. The experiences and examples that are described throughout each chapter make it easy to identify with the author's point of view and understand the proposed solutions. In the first chapter McDonough talks about the evolution of the industrial age and its effects on the deterioration of our living environment but he points out that the solution to the current manufacturing and design problems is not a reversal to the pre-industrial age. McDonough suggests a "strategy of change" rather than becoming involved in the "strategy of tragedy."
Chapter two is focused on re-designing our view of sustainability and eco-efficiency. McDonough points out that eco-efficiency as pursued by most of our society today is a failing strategy since it does not reach deep enough. Efficiency must address all processes, materials, and designs involved in the creation, use, and disposal of the products and objects in our environment. It is only through a new and holistic approach to production and consumption that we are able to achieve efficiency. McDonough' description of eco-effectiveness as "working on the right thing instead of making the wrong thing less bad" is a holistic approach to efficiency and sustainability. One of my favorite parts of this book is this sentence: Just about every process has side effects. But they can be deliberate and sustaining instead of unintended and pernicious. I think as designers, it should be our goal to design a life cycle for our design and plan for the unexpected.
In McDonough's view of sustainability, it is the responsibility of all of us to think of the biological and technical byproducts of our designs and processes and find intended destinations for them. The idea of cradle to cradle is to find a new beginning for the end, to be able to keep diversity by small changes like investing in local resources, and to learn the big lessons that nature offers in small ways.
Cradle to Cradle is unique in its approach to identifying the issues of sustainability and environmental awareness. The author begins by describing the history of human development in terms of production and how we have come to identify our current methods of production as being futile to our own survival. The experiences and examples that are described throughout each chapter make it easy to identify with the author's point of view and understand the proposed solutions. In the first chapter McDonough talks about the evolution of the industrial age and its effects on the deterioration of our living environment but he points out that the solution to the current manufacturing and design problems is not a reversal to the pre-industrial age. McDonough suggests a "strategy of change" rather than becoming involved in the "strategy of tragedy."
Chapter two is focused on re-designing our view of sustainability and eco-efficiency. McDonough points out that eco-efficiency as pursued by most of our society today is a failing strategy since it does not reach deep enough. Efficiency must address all processes, materials, and designs involved in the creation, use, and disposal of the products and objects in our environment. It is only through a new and holistic approach to production and consumption that we are able to achieve efficiency. McDonough' description of eco-effectiveness as "working on the right thing instead of making the wrong thing less bad" is a holistic approach to efficiency and sustainability. One of my favorite parts of this book is this sentence: Just about every process has side effects. But they can be deliberate and sustaining instead of unintended and pernicious. I think as designers, it should be our goal to design a life cycle for our design and plan for the unexpected.
In McDonough's view of sustainability, it is the responsibility of all of us to think of the biological and technical byproducts of our designs and processes and find intended destinations for them. The idea of cradle to cradle is to find a new beginning for the end, to be able to keep diversity by small changes like investing in local resources, and to learn the big lessons that nature offers in small ways.
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