project direction...

Design thinking
THE word “design” tends to conjure up images of crisp graphics, nicely arranged interiors or pleasing packaging. But a growing cadre of advocates say the world of design has much more to offer corporate America.
Design thinking usually involves a period of field research — usually close observation of people — to generate inspiration and a better understanding of what is needed, followed by open, nonjudgmental generation of ideas. After a brief analysis, a number of the more promising ideas are combined and expanded to go into “rapid prototyping,” which can vary from a simple drawing or text description to a three-dimensional mock-up. Feedback on the prototypes helps hone the ideas so that a select few can be used.
(direct quote from Design Is More Than Packaging, NY Times article)

Creating a system
Ideally, I would like to create a system for the project. Rather than a form based project, I would like to explore creating a system with methods from design thinking.
1. research Ateliers and how they work in Europe
2. observe behavior - what is behavior telling us that words do not? do the actions differ from words?
3. conduct face-to-face research & generating discussion - although more time-consuming, face-to-face research provide in-depth feedback essential for creating a system
4. prototype the idea & get feedback (from all parties involved)

After some thought, pondering, disappointment, frustration, reassurance and more pondering during the week...
Phase 1: create an identity for the project, create an introduction to the project and promote
Phase 2: more in-depth research in continuation from phase 1, create a system in co-operation with various sources