Today I was googling for something relating to design—I don’t even remember what I was searching for now—and instead of getting what I thought I wanted, I ended up getting the only journal in existence completely focused on Design Studies. Take a moment to let that sink in. Perhaps the existence of this journal is woefully obvious to folks who have been in the DS game longer than I have, but finding this journal made my Superbowl Sunday. Here are its aims and scope:
Design Studies is the only journal to approach the understanding of design from comparisons across all domains of application, including engineering and product design, architectural design and planning, computer artefacts and systems design. It therefore provides a unique forum for the development and discussion of fundamental aspects of design activity and experience, from cognition and methodology to values and philosophy.The journal reports new research and scholarship in principles, procedures and techniques relevant to the practice, management and pedagogy of design..
As the concept of design becomes increasingly important, it is vital for researchers, educators and practising designers to stay abreast of the latest research and new ideas in this rapidly growing field; with its truly interdisciplinary coverage, Design Studies meets these needs with maximum effect.
The journal reports on new developments, techniques, knowledge and applications in the practice of design, as well as design education: how design techniques may be taught, the approach to ill-defined problems and the impact of new technologies. Coverage includes design management, design methods, participation in planning and design, design education, AI and computer aids in design, design in engineering, theoretical aspects of design, design in architecture, design and manufacturing, innovation in industry and design and society.”
I’m not going to try and contain my excitement. When I saw this, I literally ran around the house trying to figure out who to call to share my joy, but then I realized the energy would probably be better spent on a blog post.
Also, this journal isn’t just something that exists on paper. Every issue exists online through our University of Washington library system. Every issue, full text of every article, and none of this abstract-only-until-you-pay bullshit, is available in PDF format. Until we graduate of course. I don’t know about everyone else, but I’m going to be busy printing these babies out until spring. It was kind of difficult to get there through the library website, but if you’re logged into myUW, you should be able to get the full content in all its glory.
