Design Research

Danish design research helps set the agenda on the international research scene by developing theories and methods for use in design practice and thus contributing to making design a research-based practice field.

Danish design research involves both basic research, applied research and experimental development/practice-based research, as these terms are defined by the OECD.

• Basic research is experimental or theoretic work aimed at achieving new insights. In the field of design research this includes, for example, philosophical studies as well as studies aimed at clarifying key concepts or at developing or refining theory.
• Applied research is studies aimed at acquiring new knowledge and insights, primarily in relation to particular practical goals and objectives. In the field of design research, for example, this includes qualitative and quantitative studies of well-defined topics.
• Experimental development is systematic, practice-based work that transfers existing theory to practical applications and creates new knowledge. In the field of design research, for example, this includes material studies or the development of products and processes.

Whatever the approach to design research, the projects include explicit thesis control, documentation of methods and experiments, written reports, and verifiability.

Interdisciplinary approach

By its very nature, design research is interdisciplinary. In relation to research methodology and theory, it draws on a wide range of disciplines stemming from architecture, design, engineering, the humanities, and social sciences.

Business partnerships

The Danish design research environment is engaged in network collaboration with the private sector through specific research projects and through consortiums in industries such as fashion, furniture, and textile. The knowledge and innovative dynamics of the research environment provides private enterprises with a valuable platform for developing and producing design solutions that pursue commercial objectives while also serving the public good.