The web is powerful, we’re used to it by now. In a communication sense, it creates almost infinite possibilities for diffusion of information content on a global scale across devices, platforms and media - content is, to use a cliché, king.
However, without context, content is simply information. It doesn’t quite have meaning yet. The role of visual design in creating this context is often overlooked (and I believe very important).
In most types of web-based communication, the individual or organization’s goal is to bring a definite message across. Often, the perceived message can be fine-tuned to a large extent by the surroundings in which it is brought across. I like to call these surroundings "atmosphere". Think about a conversation with a good friend. Think about where you have that conversation. In a bar? Probably so noisy that you’ll only pick up little bits. In a shopping mall? You’ll probably be so overwhelmed by the visual stimuli that you don’t really pay attention… See my point?
If one takes it even further, different surroundings evoke different emotions - which can strongly impact on the message. Think about the conversation again… Imagine trying to convince your friend of the viability of an artistic idea you have. Now, imagine standing in a bank queue explaining the concept, and imagine the same having dinner at a nice restaurant with a live band playing in the background.
The visual nature of web design is the same. It provides emotion to the content, gives it an atmosphere in which to live - all the difference in the world, don’t you think?
Over the last few weeks I have been in contact with Martin by e-mail. Contact established through CPH127 
What has knowledge Management to do with Design and Innovation? Martin has some very good answers.
I’m sure he will bring some new “juice” to our overall discussion about Design and Innovation.
Many design processes is initiated from what we already now, but also by challenging what we don’t know. I’m pretty sure that Martin will “ignite” some very interesting discussions in this particular field.
Once again Martin – Welcome.
BTW - Martin has a weblog
BTWBTW - I think he won’t be the only one from the continent blogging at CPH127 – let’s see about that
Interaction design (IxD) is the professional discipline that defines
how interactive products communicate their functionality to users and
how users can interact with them.
I just came across their website - if you are into webdesign or any other interactiondesign business, it’s a need2know website
A few days ago I came across a very valuable source of information – from the product development side. Jacob provided me – through the CPH127 del.icio.us list with a link to MIT libraries. The Centre for Product Development caught my attention at the most. Take a look you self.
I just had a brief read-through of one of the articles - Architecting and Innovating. Very interesting.
A short outline – ”….the synthesis of valued offerings by aligning customer needs with technology possibilities lies at the heart of innovation…..”
Right! Right?
Designers have an important role in organizations. They are the bridge between the firm’s existing practices and beliefs—what it does and thinks now—and what it could be in the future. They are visionaries with important roles to play in the innovation process, and therefore are key drivers of organizational success. And yet innovation, and the creativity that underpins it, is notoriously hard to manage. Right?
Maybe I shouldn’t say this, but design management I fairly new to me. Because of that fact I visit DMI a few times a week. it’s a very good source of information and perspectives – browse their website. Its good.
My personal story covers more the innovation side of the game. So, I can learn a lot by visiting, maybe attending the DMI-seminars. Something for you?
For awhile myself and Hans-Henrik has discussed the possibilities in using blogs in the design process, linking the design team with the rest of the organization and with the future customers of the given product.
This morning I found some very interesting posts about different types of technology that potentially could be used in the design process.
IFTF mentioned IlliGAL Blogging where I read a post about augmenting marketing focus groups and DISCUS in relation to establishing market opportunities. It seems to me that this software also could be applied to co-creation or problem-solving sessions both internally with cross-functional participants and with customers.
Another interesting post from IFTF refers to an article in New Scientist on the topic of software agents and PR. The software is "designed to analyze an article and gauge the tone
of the article - basically it decides whether an article is positive,
negative or neutral."
This Corpora knowledge discovery and management software is apparently targeting traditional media and IFTF argues that it could be used to determine the mood and the tone related to a certain topic in a growing blogosphere. Maybe this could also be used to analyze blogs for future product and service’s development.
Do you have any ideas on technology in the design process?
Yesterday one of my colleagues attended a very interesting conference here in the middle of Copenhagen. I didn’t know before it was to late so I didn’t manage attending Today she provided me with some of the presentations – GOOD stuff. Need for the presentation? Send me an email and I’ll send it to you
Larry Keely was on stage and his presentation on what Innovation is all about is HIGHLY recommendable – but you knew that already, didn’t you?
I like Doblins 10 types of Innovation and see great usage for them in my daily work.
One question though – Doblin Group has a framework they call Innovation landscape – do any of you know which sources they use in their data-collection for their modelling? Please share.
A week ago Joyce asked me if I’ll be at Innotown in May. I’m still considering. The program looks great and I’ll maybe get the opportunity to network with best of breed thinkers…..
So, if you’re in the neighbourhood, join me.
I think we didn’t.
Maybe you’re already a regular reader of CPH127? Then you have several options. Sometimes – and we will appreciate it – you’ll visit our site directly.
But there are other ways – you could also Check-in via the following gates:
If some of you have other wishes for Christmas, please let us know.