Future-proof design: must all good things come to an end?
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2010
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Abstract
Within consumer culture, the design profession has been a driver in creating a paradigm where products obsolesce with increasing rapidity. This MOP seeks to explore how designers can develop longer lasting products that resist obsolescence through the development of the idea of'Future-Proof' Design (FP Design).
By examining the nature and origins of a consumer culture founded in obsolescence, as well as its social and environmental effects, an argument for the use of FP is developed. An alternative basis for consumer culture, in the form of a Steady State Economy, is also proposed as a supporting tool for FP design.
A model for analyzing obsolescence is developed which seeks to describe the degradation of desirability through the categories of Function, Appearance and Emotional Value. This model is then used to examine a variety of products, FP and nonFP, from which, a set of FP guidelines, using the tools of Technology and Quality, are developed for designers wishing to create such products. These tools are then used in the development of a series of three design concepts that strive to resist obsolescence.
The designs examine those objects needed for 'urban nomads; a user group that are owners of many ephemeral products. Specifically, concepts were developed for the display, storage and transportation of books; functions normally performed by products that are not kept between moves. This application of FP design principles showcases their utility, but also their subjectivity, and how they are applied through attention to detail at both broad and minute scales in the product development process. These tools should provide a departure point for further research in the field of product obsolescence and design.
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Bibliography: p. 86-88
Thesis is in colour.
Thesis is in colour.
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Citation
Kerr, J. R. (2010). Future-proof design: must all good things come to an end? (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/4244