Observations on the Implications of Generative Design Tools on Design Process and Designer Behaviour
Year: 2023
Editor: Kevin Otto, Boris Eisenbart, Claudia Eckert, Benoit Eynard, Dieter Krause, Josef Oehmen, Nad
Author: Saadi, Jana; Yang, Maria
Series: ICED
Institution: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Section: Design Methods
Page(s): 2805-2814
DOI number: https://doi.org/10.1017/pds.2023.281
ISBN: -
ISSN: -
Abstract
Developments in artificial intelligence (AI) are opening the possibilities for the development of more advanced design tools. An example of these innovations are generative design tools, in which the generation of complex and high performing products is possible. This study investigates the use of generative design tools and how they may influence the design process and designer behaviour. Six interviews of interdisciplinary designers were conducted to understand the implications of using generative design tools. It was observed that generative design tools primarily allow for quantitative inputs to the tool while qualitative metrics, such as aesthetics, are considered indirectly by designers. The subjectivity of the designer and how they incorporate the quantitative and qualitative metrics in the generative design tool can lead to differing outcomes between designers. Notable differences in tool usage are also observed between expert and novice computational designers. Additional studies should be conducted to further understand the extent generative design tools impact the design process, designer behaviour, and design outcomes.
Keywords: Design process, Artificial intelligence, Generative Design, Human behaviour in design, Design Tools