Design Research shows readers how to choose the best method of research in order to save time and get the right results.The book makes readers aware of all the different research methods, as well as how to carry out the most appropriate research for their graphic design projects. All stages of the research process are considered in a dynamic and entertaining style, covering audience, context, trends, sources, documentation, dissemination and more.Students and designers can benefit from this text by learning fresh ways to analyse information obtained by data gathering, and how best to test and prove decisions. The resulting, well-rounded solutions will be informed, innovative, and aesthetically fitting for the brief.

ContentsIntroductionChapter 1: The basics of researchWhy research?Getting startedPrimary, secondary and tertiaryKey terminologyStudio interview - Emily HaleActivity - Approaching researchChapter 2: Understanding contextAudience and social contextsDesign contextsTheoretical underpinningStudio interview - Andrew HusseyActivity - ConventionChapter 3: Planning your workThe briefAudienceSources and credibilityRecording and documentingStudio interview - Brian ReaActivity - AudienceChapter 4: Conducting researchAudience researchMarket researchField-based researchProcess-based researchStudio interview - Jane TrustramActivity - Product and customerChapter 5: Using your findingsUnderstanding your findingsResponding to your findingsStudio interview - UnderwareActivity - ClassificationChapter 6: Presenting your findingsPresenting researchCompleting the jobStudio interview - Tanner ChristensenActivity - Presenting statisticsConclusionContactsBibliographyIndexAcknowledgementsWorking with ethics