Customer Reviews

How Designers Think, Fourth Edition: The Design Process Demystified

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I enjoyed a lot of the points made in this book, however, there were a few problems with it. I found the book, at certain times, to be extremely thought-provoking about my own process, bringing to mind things that I may not have noticed if I hadn't read about it. Still, much of it felt architecture focused, and not entirely applicable to other disciplines. Additionally, Lawson seems overly academic, especially in that he does not want to propose a theory that could be seen as "wrong," meaning that what he proposes often falls on the side of boring. The book, as well, is dense, and definitely written by an Academic. Many times the points in the book are beleaguered, made too many times, and supported by one too many pieces of evidence. At times, I wish it was just a tad snappier in places.

Pros: The author brought up many good points about the design process and how it has changed over the past few decades, which was a nice history lesson. I was introduced to many `famous' designers in this book and now have real people to research should I pursue this further. The insight into the designers' minds was inspiring and thought-provoking.

Cons: The author is a little gun-shy when it comes to making actual concrete decisions. I understand that there are no earthly absolutely, but you have to make a decision some time. No real conclusions were drawn other than ~those who are creative... are creative, but that we can all be that way if we stick to it~. Examples and postulates were stated frequently, and I would hazard to guess unnecessarily so.

Assessment: Worth a quick view if on sale, in the library, or at a friend's place. Would be kind of a stretch to pay the $24 on Amazon.

I was very disappointed with this book. Now, I'm a great collector of books on this subject line - thinking and problem solving. I'm an architect. I am forever curious as to how people think we designers think. I'm also interested in how to teach young designers to think, so I'm always looking for new tools. The discussion in this book doesn't really offer either for me. I found little that was accurate about how I design or even discussions on how people in general solve problems. I also found little that I might use to assist young designers even though the author claims to deal with young designers as a professor and an indication that the book was written for just such a purpose. Chapter Five, "Measurement, criteria and judgment" was pure unmitigated tripe. I forced myself to read this book and as a result of what I read I do not recommend that anyone buy this book. I wasted my money, don't waste yours. Instead, if I were to recommend one book for these purposes, I'd recommend "Sparks of Genius - Thirteen Thinking Tools of the World's Most Creative People" by Michele and Robert Bernstein.

I have followed the many editions of this book. It is a classic. In this latest offering, the author has managed to keep it up to date - not easy in today's fast changing world. Well done. Look forward to the next edition.