Abstract:
Visual action methods provide ways for generating 'rich pictures' of 'complex situations' and 'wicked problems'. These methods of action research are relevant to both design 'research' strategies and design 'learning' strategies particularly in relation to co-design and user centred approaches to design. Whilst visual action methods are used widely in business consultancy, marketing and service design they are not widely appreciated or used within design research, practice or education. How can these methods be used in design research, education and practice? This paper examines the relevance of visual 'action' methods as ways of eliciting ideas, opinions and perspectives, promoting discussion and creating a common language within teamwork and stakeholder consultation, thus assisting in reaching deeper 'understandings of problem situations'.
