A brief introduction into futures studies methods and its application prospects in field of design

Abstract: This article, through a comparison of the similarities and differences between the fields of futures studies and design, as well as an exploration of the necessity and advantages of applying futures studies research methods to design education and practice, reveals the close connection between the two disciplines. The article first outlines the development background and historical evolution of futures studies in the form of a timeline of disciplinary history. By analyzing key developmental stages, milestones, and turning points in its history, it preliminarily demonstrates the macroscopic and diverse characteristics of futures studies. Furthermore, by combining tangible concepts, it provides a detailed introduction to abstract futures study methods covering multiple research directions in futures studies, systematically analyzing the potential benefits of these methods for design practitioners in various aspects. The research finds that futures studies provide a new foundation and perspective for the design industry in inspiring innovative design thinking, predicting scenario trends and design needs, enhancing adaptability of design for the technological and social environment of the future, and deepening designer’s understanding of user experience in the long term. This significantly strengthens the credibility and reliability of design, helping designers better understand and respond to the ever-changing social and technological environment. Finally, the article, supported by examples, vividly illustrates the development prospects of design futures studies and the practical application of futures studies in the design field, presenting a rich and in-depth research perspective to the readers. The article envisions the future direction of futures studies, providing valuable reflections for the future development of the discipline. Through the exposition in this article, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the mutual influence between futures studies and design, as well as the crucial role of futures studies in design education and practice.

Keywords: Future Studies, Design Alternative, Disciplinary History, Research Methods, Development Prospects, Disciplinary Trends.

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004819

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