The effects of representation on idea generation and design fixation: A study comparing sketches and function trees. (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Atilola, Olufunmilola; Tomko, Megan; Linsey, Julie S.
• Is Part Of: Design studies. Volume 42(2016)
• Page Start: 110
• Page End: 136
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: design fixation -- engineering design -- conceptual design -- design activity -- creativity; Design -- Periodicals; 745.405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.destud.2015.10.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0142-694X

Abstract

Abstract : Representations in engineering design can be hand sketches, photographs, CAD, functional models, physical models, or text. Using representations allows engineers to gain a clearer picture of how a design works. We present an experiment that compares the influence of representations on fixation and creativity. This experiment presents designers with an example solution represented as a function tree and a sketch, we compare how these different external representations influence design fixation as they complete a design task. Results show that function trees do not cause fixation to ideas compared to a control group, and that function trees reduce fixation when compared to sketches. Results from this experiment show that function tree representations offer advantages for reducing fixation during idea generation. Highlights: Representations in engineering design promote clarity, but cause fixation. A representation influences the creativity of the designer. During idea generation, function trees offer advantages for reducing fixation.