Design Theory: Elements, Principles and more

Design can be said to be the process of envisioning and planning the creation of objects, interactive systems, buildings, vehicles, etc. It is user-centered, i.e. users are at the heart of the design thinking approach. It is about creating solutions for people, physical items or more abstract systems to address a need or a concern. While not being exactly an art nor a science, it takes elements from both. Art is about creating something that expresses the author’s vision, ideas, and feelings. While designers can express feelings and leave impressions through their work, doing so is not their prime objective. So it takes the creating aspect of art, as it is about crafting an item, a tool, an experience even. Design is at the service of the people- it takes on the problem-solving aspect of science. It exists primarily to address a particular need. It is a very broad concept and its meaning can greatly vary from one field to another. Design can be of various types, some include...