In "The Writer's Toolbox" different methods for idea generating were described. These methods included creating mind maps, concept maps or word lists. Freewriting and brainwriting were also suggested. Writing allows designers to solidify and multiply ideas.
I felt that the article portrayed the methods as very structured. The author made it seem as though one had to follow specific instructions when brainstorming. I prefer that ideas be generated in a free, individualistic manner. In this way the article did not sit well with me, but I though the suggestions for freewriting might be something I will use.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
IDEO Video Reflection
To understand the process of redesigning an object, my class watched a video about IDEO, an industrial design firm. In the program, IDEO was asked to redesign a shopping cart in a week as the film crew documented their process.
The team started off by researching the function and problems with the cart. They talked to shoppers and store owners to gain information. The designers then reported what they found and tried to create solutions to the design problems.
Then the designers generated ideas to fix the object. While brainstorming, no ideas were dismissed. Even crazy solutions were included so that other ideas could build off them. Finally, prototypes were made by a process of trial and error until a final design could be reached.
What struck me the most from this program was how the designers approached their work. They looked at it more so as a game, something that was fun and challenging. "Being playful is important to being innovative," the video said. The designers at IDEO also work in an environment that is whimsical; the space itself allows for true creativity. I love this approach to work, and I definitely will try to enjoy my project as such.
The team started off by researching the function and problems with the cart. They talked to shoppers and store owners to gain information. The designers then reported what they found and tried to create solutions to the design problems.
Then the designers generated ideas to fix the object. While brainstorming, no ideas were dismissed. Even crazy solutions were included so that other ideas could build off them. Finally, prototypes were made by a process of trial and error until a final design could be reached.
What struck me the most from this program was how the designers approached their work. They looked at it more so as a game, something that was fun and challenging. "Being playful is important to being innovative," the video said. The designers at IDEO also work in an environment that is whimsical; the space itself allows for true creativity. I love this approach to work, and I definitely will try to enjoy my project as such.
Project #2
This past week I began work on my next project for design class. For this exercise, students were asked to recreate a poorly designed object. A prototype of the object, poster, short movie and individual process book will be created around the redesigning process.
My group decided to redesign a poorly functioning shower caddy. The caddy had poor drainage, dinky handles and odd proportions. In all, it does not serve its basic purpose well. Here is a picture of my group's brainstorm.
My group decided to redesign a poorly functioning shower caddy. The caddy had poor drainage, dinky handles and odd proportions. In all, it does not serve its basic purpose well. Here is a picture of my group's brainstorm.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Friday, September 14, 2012
The Finished Project
After going through multiple revisions, I finally finished my poster today. I focused on showing the good design of a tea bag, and tried to emphasize the classic simplicity of the object. I am happy with how it turned out!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Color Lecture
Color is an essential part of the design process. The
quantity, placement, shade, texture and combinations of colors directly relate
to the success of a design.
In the lecture in class, different strategies for successful
color selection were presented. For example, a designer could choose to weaken
the chroma of a palette so that the color would not be overwhelming. In
addition, one could balance bright colors with neutrals.
The assignment that followed asked students to look for 24 different
examples of color usage. With the new vocabulary and ideas for color unity, I
was able to carefully pick out color examples.
Here are a few of my examples:
Use of Neutrals
Harmonious Hues
Harmonious Value
Contrasting Value
Hue Dominance
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Monday, September 3, 2012
Design
"Good design is as little design as possible." Dieter Rams
In the 1970s, Rams was concerned with whether he was a significant
contributor to the design world. To evaluate his work, Rams decided upon the Ten Principles for Good Design. He defined good design as:
• Innovative
• Useful
• Beautiful
• Understandable
• Unobtrusive
• Honest
• Long-lasting
• Thorough
• Environmentally Friendly
• Simple
Rams’ definite list was the most helpful in understanding the qualities of good design. I frequently referred to this list when trying to pick my final object and when critiquing other posters. I even started recognizing
objects everyday that followed his principles, and I quoted principle
number 10 in a Facebook status. Rams’ principles were the most
applicable and memorable of the research materials.
In the 1970s, Rams was concerned with whether he was a significant
contributor to the design world. To evaluate his work, Rams decided upon the Ten Principles for Good Design. He defined good design as:
• Useful
• Beautiful
• Understandable
• Unobtrusive
• Honest
• Long-lasting
• Thorough
• Environmentally Friendly
• Simple
objects everyday that followed his principles, and I quoted principle
number 10 in a Facebook status. Rams’ principles were the most
applicable and memorable of the research materials.
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