The idea of the solution space is like a geometric space with various dimensions. Simon believed that each solution is a point in this space. For example, when designing shoes, the space includes factors like gender, size, color, and type. Variation in the space comes from introducing new materials or technologies. Expanding the space leads to innovative solutions, like adding a bladder to a tennis shoe or weaving in 3D. It's about thinking outside the existing solutions and creating something new.
Hugh Dubberly is the founder of Dubberly Design Office, an interaction design studio based in San Francisco. Hugh has a long trajectory in the design world. Before opening his studio, he did pioneering work at leading tech companies like Apple and Netscape. He is also a thinker and teacher of uncommon depth and breadth. He’s my colleague at the California College of the Arts, and I’m also lucky to call him a friend and mentor. I met with Hugh in his office to discuss his recent paper arguing against framing design as problem-solving, and that is the focus of this conversation.
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