Addressing Design Challenges: A Deep Dive into Problem-Solving through Design

Throughout my academic journey, I have explored how design identifies and resolves key issues by applying research-driven, user-centred methodologies. The section explores and uncovers the Design Problem. 

Understanding the Design Problem Process

The design process begins by identifying a problem, researching its impact, and exploring innovative solutions. A well-structured design problem requires a deep understanding of the target audience and context. Designers must combine analytical and creative thinking to develop functional, meaningful solutions highlighted by (Lawson, 2006).

The design problem uses a structured approach, which includes research, ideation, prototyping and testing, ensuring that solutions are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical. Design thinking bridges the gap between creativity with real-world challenges to produce impactful results (Buchanan, 1992). I find this very important because this is what design is all about. It is meant to solve problems.  

However, before solving a problem is important to understand the problem. This is when research comes in as it is an essential tool to understand the problem. Research is essential for solving design problems and providing insight into stakeholders, environmental influences, and potential solutions. Cross (2011) explains that designing is a process of asking questions and testing ideas out repeatedly. If there is no solid research behind them, solutions risk being ineffective. 

For instance, my design exploration analyzed urban accessibility challenges through user research, case studies, and applying urban design principles, it aligns with Norman’s (2013) focus on user-centred design; however, in this particular design example, I was required to create my own brief by writing my own design problem. This would give me the basis for understanding "What a design problem is". This was the design problem of fashion. The design problem will explore using the design thinking approach.

The Design Thinking Approach

Design thinking encourages new ideas by focusing on understanding people's needs, generating creative solutions, and experimenting with them (Brown, 2009).

This approach involves:

Define: Clearly articulating the problem

The fashion industry is a significant global sector valued at $1.7 trillion, employing over 300 million people worldwide. Fast fashion retailers are driving industry growth by speeding up production cycles and offering trendy designs at affordable prices. However, fast fashion also leads to substantial waste, environmental harm, and concerns regarding underpaid and unsafe working conditions for factory workers (McKinsey, 2023).

Contextualize: Understand the Problem

The problem with the global fashion industry is that it generates excessive waste, with 85% of textiles ending up in landfills, polluting waterways with toxic dyes and contributing 10% of global carbon emissions. Behind the scenes, workers in developing nations often face unsafe conditions and unfair wages to meet the relentless demand for cheap clothing.

Ideate: Brainstorming creative solutions

The solution to the problem would be to apply upcycling, which reduces energy use by 70% compared to new production, conserves water and oil, and keeps waste out of landfills. For example, durable handbags made from merged plastic bags showcase how "trash" can become fashionable accessories while slashing the carbon footprint of traditional manufacturing (Stallard, 2022).

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Prototype: Developing models for testing

The design process began with sketching ideas on how to transform upcycled materials into functional and fashionable handbags. These early sketches planned out the bag's shape, look, and practical elements while taking into account the special qualities of reused materials.

These are concept sketches of handbags that represent my initial explorations for transforming upcycled materials into functional fashion handbags.

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Test: Refining solutions based on feedback

Prototypes must undergo quality checks for durability, user feedback on comfort and style. It was found that 60% of shoppers now prefer brands that offer products made from recycled materials product (“From Waste to Wealth: Upcycling in the Handbag Industry”).

Iterative: This iterative framework ensures solutions are innovative, practical, and sustainable.

The testing phase is just the beginning, as the real innovation occurs when we set up a cycle of improvements. By using an approach where designs are constantly revisited and refined, we build a system for continuous product development that improves how it looks and works over time.

Reflection

Design plays a role transformative role in addressing real-world challenges. By combining research, focusing on users' needs, and being creative, designers come up with solutions that make things more accessible, sustainable, and easy to use. I aim to create designs that incorporate these elements.