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Different Types of Productive Thinking in Design: From Rational to Social Design Thinking

In: Design Thinking Research

Author

Listed:
  • Jan Auernhammer

    (Stanford University)

  • Bernard Roth

    (Stanford University)

Abstract

This book chapter outlines the theory of Productive Thinking in Design. This theory is the psychological foundation of today’s Design Thinking. Productive Thinking incorporates the psychological processes of finding a need, problem, or structural tension and determining a means that satisfies the need and harmonizes the tension. These psychological processes are driven by forces and factors, including attitudes, attributes, and human values. In this article, we outline five different types of Productive Thinking and discuss them in the context of Design. These are (1) Rational, (2) Situational, (3) Experimental, (4) Dialectic, and (5) Counterproductive. Each type of Productive Thinking is dependent on the situational context for which a design solution needs to be created. For example, a situation in which a solution-method can be determined directly requires Rational Productive Thinking, while unintelligible, ambiguous, and emerging situations require Experimental or Dialectic Productive Thinking. We emphasize that it is essential to cultivate a Productive Culture in which individuals can freely, creatively, confidently, competently, and collaboratively design for a harmonious ecological and social whole.

Suggested Citation

  • Jan Auernhammer & Bernard Roth, 2022. "Different Types of Productive Thinking in Design: From Rational to Social Design Thinking," Understanding Innovation, in: Christoph Meinel & Larry Leifer (ed.), Design Thinking Research, pages 271-290, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:undchp:978-3-031-09297-8_14
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-09297-8_14
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