Universal Methods of Design

RESEARCH METHOD • SYNTHESIS / ANALYSIS TECHNIQUE • RESEARCH DELIVERABLE

39 Exploratory Research

Exploratory research is defined by user and product studies, intended to forge an empathic knowledge base, particularly when designers may be working in unfamiliar territory.

Exploratory research is typically conducted in the earliest stages of the design process, set by the planning, scoping, and definition phase, and leading to generative concept design. Activities are focused on gaining a solid knowledge base of the design territory and existing artifacts, and forging an empathic sense of the people targeted by the design work.

Exploratory research ...