Remote ideation

Major changes have taken place in design practices in recent decades strongly impacted by technology, including digital communication. Positively, this means that designers can work from almost anywhere they choose. But freedom to work almost anywhere and at anytime may have drawbacks. For example, social isolation and loneliness may ensue with technology-based remote working as many aspects of design relate to the physical world with its many sensuous qualities, including in-person interaction. Indeed, as held by the philosopher Merleau-Ponty (1908-61), actual human existence is perceived on a sensual-physical level*. Physical studio space, however, is no longer the default setting for designers as AI systems combined with CAD and 3D printing provide for mobility and remote working, from ideation to prototyping. That is, AI assisted design thinking and making are changing the studio experience. Yet most designers feel the need for physical and ambient work spaces not just for work-related discussion and collaboration but for spontaneous meetings and small-talk that provide both social and emotional connections. After all, digital communication, however convenient and efficient is lacking built-in social breaks. And so, to stay motivated and productive, designers want social face-to-face connections. Studio observations, moreover, and both in education and professional practice show that person-to-person interactions foster and enhance creativity and collaborative work as well as giving designers a sense of belonging to a team or community. Text inspired by https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/digital-world-real-world/202512/remote-working-and-loneliness?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-gb  *Merleau-Ponty, M. (1945 French original - 1962 English translation). Phenomenology of Perception. London: Routledge & Kegan Paul