The Beauty of Uncertainty...

We discussed this week about the importance of being OK with uncertainty. It is problematic if a designer goes with their initial instinct and doesn't spend time thinking of the problem ftom multiple angles and prototyping these ideas. This problem stems from the power of iterations and building upon other designs. If you skip this step you limit the solution too early.

I'm an engineer....always have been and it can be seen in my methodical layouts, need for lists and urge to define. I don't let it limit me. I just do my best to sit it aside until a point along the way when the ideas are numerous enough that the solution really will be the best option.

Until I reach this point, I let my mind use other people's ideas to spark hybrids. I'm pretty sure when working on the self-deploying emergency housing we went through at least 40 ideas, all of which were slightly related but unique in their solution. The final concept we are working doesn't look like our initial prototypes but the background sure can be derived from them.

A great exercise for designers is to start the design process with voicing the most ideal situation whether it is technologically possible or not. This usually sets high goals for the project forcing iterations, development and challenging of the idea.
-What is the ideal deployable housing?
A 3 x 3 cube that slowly unfolds into a 7 x 7 x 7 shelter.
-What is the best way to solve the gas crisis?
Teleportation
-What is the best way to make a home video?
Camera inset in contact lens so it doesn't hinder your ability to enjoy the event

It certainly sets the bar high and gets the excitement running.