Asa Jackson and Henry Lee
In this study researchers explore the relationships between verbal and visual disciplinary jargons through an analysis of verbal-visual process models within the physical artefact development process. Building on the work of authors like Wynn and Clarkson, Bobbe et al., Gericke & Blessing, and Roozenburg and Cross, researchers seek to evolve the dialogue surrounding verbal-visual process models and their ability to perpetuate not only their own disciplines and practices, but also their connections to systemic design pluralism and collaboration. In this study, researchers qualitatively assess 43 models from architecture, engineering, business, industrial design, and generic disciplines. Two layers of thematic coding were used to assess the 43 models included in the study. The first layer aimed at classifying and categorising graphical or structural elements of the various models. This could include the shapes that were used, the general direction of the process, or the amount of convergence and divergence inherent in the visual diagram. The second layer aimed at analysing the text of each model, with the hopes of responding to the importance of shared jargon in systemic processes. This included recording all words and phrases from the models and then identifying significant similarities and discrepancies. Additionally, the study compares the models in terms of their overall process increments or steps, emphasising their cyclical or linear natures. The analysis of the process models revealed a number of patterns, unique differences, and potential gaps that can be employed to design and implement newer model designs to promote systemic design pluralism. Alternatively, educating students and practitioners on models outside of their respective disciplines, using updated jargon specific to their disciplines, will serve as a method for improving collaborative work successfully, and bolster systemic design pluralism overall.
Keywords: Systemic design, design process models, design pluralism