Edinburgh Napier University

  This thesis focuses on the development of original design ‘ideation’ processes (the formation of ideas or concepts) set within the context of both commercial museum and exhibition design contracts and product design pedagogic research. Taken together the published works that accompany this submission explore the impacts on productivity and creative problem solving when working away from a physical fixed studio or office-based environment. They also examine the significance of 'shared place' when working directly with a client in situ, as well as place-based influences upon the business of the client. This thesis identifies location as part of the design process and examines the effects of time restriction and working ‘in transit’ upon creativity and productivity. The integration and impact of new and emerging mobile technologies on creative workflow processes is also explored in the context of my own practice between 2007 and 2019. I define my workflow process as the journey from idea generation and development through to production, manufacture and installation.

My contribution to new knowledge is the creation of an ideation methodology made up of assembled methods which are defined by drawing, mobility and moving image. I have established methods of using drawings as props to facilitate design ideation. I have developed visual schematics tools to communicate teaching and learning feedback loops. I have built on the concept of learning spaces as the static stages of learning and developed a process of using the time moving between locations as a fluid learning space to allow for observation, reflection, discussion and ideation. I employ moving image as a tool to capture feedback and curate the design processes. I consider my methods original by virtue of their cross-disciplinary approach and use of different methodologies.