Towards a strategic framework for design research

Design research as an academic, intellectual field of study is new in comparison to engineering science research or research into the established natural sciences. This paper considers the current state of progress, describes the 'artificial' nature of design and the necessity for design research, and highlights the need for clearer macro goals and agreed methods of research. A methodology is proposed based on a foundational value system, which will first enable descriptive research profiles to be created from which prescriptive classifications can be attempted by deductive and inductive reasoning. The value system proposed is one in which national prosperity and improvement in the quality of life are achieved by industrial relevance and responsiveness. It is argued that meaningful classification must include a breadth and depth of parameters to reflect the value system and that such a classification will enable a more effective and efficient exploitation of the field.