Design Tools and Framing Practices

Abstract

In the paper design processes are conceived as social processes ofinterpretation and construction of meaning, and potentially ofcontext generation. A reconstructive approach to design researchis suggested which studies design processes in terms of socialinteraction. Designers' interpretative works are based on theircapabilities acquired through enculturation, like practices,routines, and skilled use of tools. Examples taken from case studies aredescribed and some concepts for description are suggested. Descriptivedesign research might be more apt in stimulating designers' reflectionson their practices and routines and thereby initiating learningprocesses rather than yet another design method.