IXD-200A: 3rd Term Review

The first three foundational terms in the IxD program concentrate heavily on identifying, understanding, describing and designing interactive products, experiences and systems from the perspective of the end-user. Emphasis will be placed on the professional application of design methodology in the creation of new product concepts in various categories such as mobile, tangible, electronics, web and environmental applications, communicating them through personas, wireframes and usability research. The course introduces students to the theory and practice of various types of design research including human centered qualitative and ethnographic methods as well as formal and analytical techniques. Students will be required to analyze, describe and design end-to-end customer experiences in different product categories with a focus on developing user driven solutions. Classic problem solving methodology will be instituted early in the process to insure solid concepts, process and deliverables. A strong emphasis will be on the ideation techniques of brainstorming, rapid visualization drawing and human factors to formulate product concepts and illustrate proof of concept. Final deliverables will be evaluated under the criteria of their clarity of purpose and their delivery through verbal presentation.