Cultivating an Interest in Design Research

Abstract

This introduction to a special issue, Research in Communication Design, provides a brief argument for why design research is important now. The importance and difference of design research needs from that of other disciplines is stressed. The focus is on the development of knowledge useful in the practice of design. It also challenges the ‘black box’ of design and questions the limits to its knowledge. Articles are briefly introduced with a commentary on their research classification and particular research approach.