Week 08 - Collaboration

Class Format

Todays brief discussion dealt with the notion of moving on in regard to ideas. Blog entry looked for examples in our experience where an aspect of flexibility has been required of our ideation process.

 

Group Exercise

Discussion

Moving On. Discuss these questions in relation to a group creating a design in collaboration;

1. Have you had to abandon any exhibition design concepts so far?
   - Yes
2. If so, was it hard?
   - Yes
3. Do you think it is easy to miss a better idea if it is not the first one?
   - Yes
4. Do you have any techniques for creating unpredictable ideas?
   - Yes
5. Is logic the best way to attack a design problem?
   - No
6. What other problem solving methods could work?
   - Randomisation, research
7. Do you ever doubt your design decisions?
   - Absolutely
8. Do you ever consciously put on “another hat” to get inspiration?
   - Yes
9. Describe somebody opposite to you in relation to their design approach?
   - Cherill
10. Could you imagine designing like them?
    - Yes

Encouraging Solutions

In regard to creative collaboration:

Discuss these questions - write a paragraph on each and use examples;

1. Describe how you have contributed to design solutions for other group members.
   - I have maintained an active contribution to our groups design solutions through communication.  Having an open dialogue has been vital to our groups progress with the project. 
2. Describe how you have challenged designs by other students in your group.
   - By opening a dialogue within the group about whats bugging me. I have also suggested alternatives to design proposals which have bugged me. That might make it in as one of the designs; helmet covers that look like big bugs, we could do a cute bug for the kids. I would prefer a life like cockroach however. But mostly, I just lead with making fun of their pets.
3. Are you flexible when others suggest design improvements / changes?
   - Certainly, well at least I try to be and it most definitely depends on you design team. Working as an Artist in Residence in a secondary school on a collaborative mural was a great test of my responsiveness to flexibility. Young adults are like gurgling fonts of ideation and for me knowing what to be flexible with as well as not became the most important distinction to make.
4. Choose a design that group input has changed radically. Post before & after images.
   - The template would be the element which has changed the most significantly for me. Initial design research indicated that an essentially round piece of fabric. Further practical template application suggested the same oval shape with two triangle pleats at the front and back.
5. Describe the process of shifting the design solution radically.
   - Practical template application suggested an oval shape with two triangle pleats at the front and back. We created from this a modified paper template and applied it to a piece of fabric. Tested and noted any further alterations on the template as these could be allowed for when cutting and stitching. This was perhaps not the most radical shift in the design solution.

 

Research

Video

This video shows the design process as an evolving thing, a notion to which I identify. I want to drink one those eucalyptus things right now!

 

Images

The original  iPhone patent application from 1985 from Design You Trust via Jay Mug. Imagine the heartache Apple's designers had letting go of this ideation gold. I particularly like the futuristic font used. 

 

Reflection

I've stated elsewhere on this blog that I try not to be precious with my ideas. The topic this week is pertinent to that notion inviting elaboration. Working collaboratively especially I think it is important not to take yourself too seriously. Being open with your ideas is the first step and enabling the change of your own is the second. Do not be afraid of the collaborative process - it will help you.