Today’s design practice must address so-called “wicked problems” that interact with complex systems. In this complex environment, Buchanan offers designers a broad perspective through four levels of design. According to the four levels of design, the first level of design optimizes user perception and message through visual communication through symbols. The second level encompasses an interdisciplinary flow involving design, engineering, and ergonomics, representing product design. The third level addresses user experience and needs, considering human behavior and the functioning of systems. The most intriguing aspect for me is the fourth level. At the fourth level of design, the designer designs complex systems, organizations, and environments. Interdisciplinary knowledge flows and circulates here. The designer serves as a bridge that carries and processes this knowledge, transforming it into human-centered solutions.
In industrial design education, this fourth level is still evolving. While designers receive training at this level in design education through “interdisciplinary studio” and “design management” courses, the scope of this level can be expanded, and approaches not yet adopted can be considered. Moreover, while these steps have been taken in design education, this level has not yet penetrated the organizational position of designers and the decision-making mechanisms of companies. The strategic position of designers in interdisciplinary environments has not yet been fully established within organizations. In addition to the fourth level of design education, organizations should also integrate design thinking and consider the strategic position of designers within the company, which would be beneficial for the development of companies and products.
For people who are interested in this area, you can also read these sources:
Buchanan, R. (2001). Design research and the new learning. Design Issues, 17(4) https://www.ida.liu.se/~steho87/desres/buchanan.pdf
Buchanan, R. (1992). Wicked Problems in Design Thinking. Design Issues, 8(2) https://web.mit.edu/jrankin/www/engin_as_lib_art/Design_thinking.pdf
