Triggering concept generation with activity theory

Product development established processes emphasize requirements specification as a starting point in new concept generation. Rather than limiting inputs for new concept generation to verbal requirement lists, industrial design students seem to prefer to be stimulated with ideas in context. A method that takes as point of departure human activity to search for new product concepts was developed. It supports pushing the envelope of creativity beyond the mere upgrade of existing concepts. Systematic design procedures are also used to evaluate and improve the initial concepts and guide their development. Paradigm shift may represent a great opportunity but also a challenge for widespread adoption of new concepts. The proposed method is put into perspective with activity based methods for systems design. Key-Words: Product development; Design theory; Science of design; Conceptual design; Human factors