The application of behavioural science to symbol Design

Abstract

In order to develop a sound basis for the development of design education, we need to study the behaviour of designers. This enquiry focuses on the process of symbol design. A definition of design is offered which takes due account of prior definitions, design methods, psychological theory, the interdisciplinary nature of design, and of greatest importance, the need for a definition which underpins empirical investigation. The nature of symbols is discussed in relation to Semiotics. The difficulties of research are considered and an approach is developed after investigating methods of classifying symbols. The limiting conditions of this approach are specified. The above discussion is integrated into a definition of symbol design and a model of the potential influences on the process is evolved. Two pilot studies of symbol design are reported and refinements to the methodology of such experiments are suggested. Some tentative conclusions emerge from these experiments, which, along with the basic theoretical framework, are used to evaluate a number of design methods. The study concludes with a discussion of future research possibilities.