Basics Design 08: Design Thinking

Gavin Ambrose achieved his Masters in Communications at Central St. Martins and is a tutor on both the Typographic and Information Design courses at the London College of Printing. He has written and designed several books on branding and packaging. Paul Harris studied at the London College of Printing and has gone on to become a freelance writer and editor. His work has appeared extensively in magazines and journals on both sides of the Atlantic, including style bible Dazed & Confused.

Excellent resource - clearly defines the most important aspects of the design process. Sections are clear and logical. Examples are very inspirational - nice use of different paper types too.

• Introduction. How to get the most out of this book. Stages of thinking: The design process; Stage 1 - Define; Stage 2 - Research; Stage 3 - Ideate; Stage 4 - Prototype; Stage 5 - Select; Stage 6 - Implement; Stage 7 - Learn; Example project. Research: Identifying drivers; Information gathering; Target groups; Samples and feedback. Idea generation: Basic design directions; Themes of thinking; Inspiration and references; Brainstorming; Value; Inclusion; Sketching; Presenting ideas. Refinement: Thinking in images; Thinking in signs; Appropriation; Humour; Personification; Visual metaphors; Modification; Thinking in words; Words and language; Type 'faces'; Thinking in shapes; Thinking in proportions; Thinking in colour. Prototyping: Developing designs; 'Types' of prototype; Vocabulary. Implementation: Format; Materials; Finishing; Media; Scale; Series/Continuity. Glossary. Conclusion. Acknowledgements. Contacts. Working with ethics.