As expected, Lupton explores the multitude of possibilities regarding the brainstorming steps of the overall design process. One in particular, visual brain dumping - a concept with an unfortunate name but essentially quite logical - seems like a great new technique for me to try. As somebody who works the best when crammed for time, the visual brain dumping technique seems like an excellent idea to try for upcoming design projects because of the set time limit that places an urgency on the project at hand.
But more importantly, this section of Lupton's book made me realize that these brainstorming techniques are only a few of the many possibilities a designer can take while working on a project. Keeping a sketch diary would be a fantastic way of documented creative growth & changes in one's approach to their design methods, but I think the best opportunities for growth are when it is completely unexpected. For example, a few weeks ago I was struck with an idea for a project while I was out with a few friends - a situation that it seemed strange to be thinking about design but appropriate because I was in a very natural state of mind, meaning I wasn't trying to force an idea out onto the paper but it just came to me.
But in general, this section of Lupton's book provided me with possible brainstorming methods that I could potentially synthesize into the perfect brainstorming method for myself as a designer.
Definitely agree with you, Sean! I've also found it very beneficial to write down random ideas and such to refer back to later. I'm glad we're on the same page on the name "visual brain dumping."
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with what you said. I think it's a great idea to get a sketch book, and to record ideas when they come naturally. Being in the same boat with you on that time crunch issue, it will be interesting to try out the brain dumping technique! But maybe we should all rename it...
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