Emile Mazerant and Frido Smulders
This workshop delves into the essential qualities of transformative relationships within design processes, focusing on the interactions among designers, clients, and other relevant stakeholders. Grounded in the framework of transformative learning, we identify interpersonal connections as pivotal in guiding actors through design transformations. Specifically, transformation in design entails the adoption of—and engagement in—novel frames to increase the likelihood of implementing proposed designs. This transformation often necessitates actors to reevaluate and potentially abandon their existing “tools” – symbols, artefacts, activities, and relations—which were previously integral to their pre-existing problem frames, routines, and role identity.
Drawing from Weick’s (1996) reflections on firefighters’ responses to sudden change, where some succeeded by dropping their tools while others perished due to their reluctance, the workshop will explore factors influencing individuals’ attachment to their tools – and their ability to let go of them. Concepts such as justification, trust, and identity will be explored to understand how people’s relationships with their tools shape their behaviour and responses to change.
The workshop further investigates the notion of the “relational tool” using Improvisational Theatre, where actors navigate uncertainty collaboratively, adapt to emerging narratives, and collaborate effectively by letting go of individual control and embracing collective creativity. Participants will gain insights into how relational dynamics can facilitate transformative change in design processes.
By delving into these themes, the workshop aims to equip participants with insights and practical strategies for fostering transformative relationships and facilitating organizational and systemic change through design transformations.