A Framework for the Dissemination of Design Research Focused on Innovation

Abstract

This contribution presents an original framework for transferring the results of design research into practice, specifically addressing the need of creating a circle of players from various companies interested in being part of both the mass dissemination process of already tested methodologies and in pilot experiences and preliminary dissemination activities with the latest design research developments. Moreover, the paper focuses the attention on the existing metrics for evaluating the impact and the viability of adoption of design methodologies in practical contexts, showing their lacks in covering aspects mostly related to the dissemination of design research concepts. An original metric is described and applied to six case studies of industrial interest that have been carried out, with the objective of consolidating the acquisition of skills through the practical application of more theoretical elements, by employees of industries that have already received a basic training. The main results are discussed also with a broader perspective, so as to highlight the potential benefits deriving from the adoption of a shared metrics to measure this kind of knowledge transmission from design research to practical applications.