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Design Tools in Practice

Studying the Designer-Tool Relationship in Interaction Design​

Introduction​

This paper investigates the complex relationships between interaction designers and their tools, focusing on why and how designers select specific tools in their creative workflows. Through semi-structured interviews with professional designers, the study reveals that tool selection is influenced not only by practical factors but also by personal, social, and cultural considerations, highlighting a nuanced designer-tool relationship.

Target​

The findings are relevant to UX and interaction design practitioners, educators, and developers of design tools who aim to understand the deeper motivations behind tool use and adoption within the field of interaction design.

Key Insights​

  • Rational Criteria for Tool Selection:
    • Efficiency: Designers often select tools that streamline processes or increase productivity.
    • Ease of Use: Familiarity and usability make certain tools more attractive to designers, especially those used frequently.
    • Flexibility: Tools that allow creative freedom and adapt to diverse design needs are preferred.
    • Collaboration Support: Designers consider how well a tool integrates with team workflows and collaborative projects.
    • Accessibility: Availability and accessibility of tools influence their selection, especially in fast-paced environments.
  • Beyond Rational Choices:
    • Familiarity and Habit: Many designers rely on tools they have used consistently, which provides comfort and confidence.
    • Identity and Personal Branding: Tools often become part of a designer’s personal identity and brand; some tools are selected because they resonate with the designer's unique approach or background.
    • Community and Cultural Influence: Designers sometimes select tools that align with the norms and expectations of the broader design community they identify with, whether in graphic design, interaction design, or other fields.
    • Control and Expertise: Tools that are less prescriptive and more adaptable allow experienced designers to showcase their expertise, as they avoid the constraints that come with more rigid tools.

Supporting Data​

  • Interview Data: Through interviews with 11 experienced interaction designers, the study gathered insights on the reasoning behind tool choices. Commonly mentioned terms such as “speed,” “flexibility,” and “ease of use” indicate the practical considerations, while personal narratives reveal deeper, often emotional connections with tools.

Other Insights​

  • Espoused Theory vs. Theory in Use: Designers' stated reasons for tool use often differ from the underlying motivations that emerge in practice, aligning with the concepts of espoused theory (the reasons designers give) and theory-in-use (the actual, often subconscious, motivations guiding their choices).
  • Interdisciplinary Tool Use: Interaction designers often draw on tools and methods from other fields like fine arts or engineering, reflecting an openness to experimenting across disciplines.

Practical Applications​

  • Support Personalization in Tool Design: Tool developers can focus on creating customizable tools that allow designers to adapt and express their unique styles and preferences.
  • Promote Familiarity and Flexibility: Develop tools that balance ease of use with advanced functionality, allowing designers to grow in skill while maintaining comfort with the tool.
  • Encourage Community-Based Design Resources: Facilitate tool choices that connect designers with communities and cultural elements relevant to their disciplines, providing alignment with shared practices and values.

Reference​

Stolterman, E., & Pierce, J. 2012. Design Tools in Practice: Studying the Designer-Tool Relationship in Interaction Design. Proceedings of the DIS 2012, ACM Press.