While I see Todd's point, I prefer a different description.
I don't like "Context can guide design decisions" because it might give
some the sense that 'context' is an active participant.
A context, as I think of it, is a model of a situation that some design
agents are motivated to change. The agents usually can't change the
situation extensively, but rather change some particular part of it,
usually by designing some new product, system, or process that is
'inserted' into the situation. The systems nature of the interactions
between the situation and the thing inserted by the designers brings
about a change in the situation.
Put another way, the situation is the operating environment into which
the designers add some artefact, for the sake of causing a change in
that environment.
As such, the context is a static thing.
So I'd rephrase what Todd wrote as: Context can influence design
decision-makers.
...maybe just hair-splitting.
Cheers.
Fil
Todd Warfel wrote:
> Rosan,
>
> Context can guide design decisions, but does not make for design decisions.
>
> Does that make sense?
>
> On Oct 27, 2005, at 10:37 AM, Rosan Chow wrote:
>
>> i have also 'found' that context and design (as specification in my
>>
>> sense) are, although highly related, independent from one another.
>>
>> having a context doesn't necessarily guarantee design, is that also your
>>
>> experience?
>>
>
>
> Cheers!
>
> Todd R. Warfel
> Partner, Design & Usability Specialist
> Messagefirst | making products & services easier to use
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>
--
Prof. Filippo A. Salustri, Ph.D., P.Eng.
Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering
Ryerson University Tel: 416/979-5000 x7749
350 Victoria St. Fax: 416/979-5265
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