Michael Roller

Mixed Media Visualization: Did I Use Design Thinking?

I recently gave a demonstration to my Design Communication students at the University of Cincinnati. I wanted to show them how to combine their 2D and 3D skills to create some new types of visualization. Designers (especially consultants) are often challenged to create concepts that are quick but visually impactful. Oftentimes, I can more quickly create a 3D model rather than sketch the form. However, 3D renderings look too refined or sterile when presenting during the middle of the design process. Combining 2D and 3D techniques creates a new tool for creating impactful, conceptual work. Here’s what I presented:

Did I just use design thinking? According to Roger Martin’s definition, I did. I had two options for visualizing concepts, neither of which were acceptable solutions for the specific problem. Instead, I developed a new option that worked around all the individual problems of a purely 2D or 3D visualization.

This example of design thinking is extremely tactical, but it is very easy to understand. Sometimes design thinking is presented in such a mysterious, complex way that we designers don’t even know when we’re practicing it.

Tags: definitions, design thinking

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