The field of design goes far beyond merely designing objects: some projects involve investigation and the production of knowledge. In this essay, Nicolas Nova discusses the main approaches designers use to observe, analyze and present their findings. The approaches to “design research” that he describes here combine social science protocols and designers’ tools: drawings, prototypes and interfaces. These approaches could provide inspiration and useful techniques for practicing designers as well as design educators and students.

The Manifestes collection showcases opinions, thoughts and actions developed by figures from the words of art and design in response to contemporary issues.