Designing has no given problems, no given processes, and no given solutions

Abstract

The question of what makes design unique is explored. We argue that a scientific lens can be used to reveal distinguishing characteristics of designing. We apply Karl Popper's criteria of falsifiability, refutability, or testability to four design process theories: Bounded Rationality, FBS Framework, Figural Complexity, and C-K Theory. Our ambition is to demonstrate that (1) some theories about design can be construed as scientific in Popper's terms, and that (2) these theories do not frame design as a systematic, objective, and rational process. Instead, they frame designing as an approach distinct from science in that it has no given problem, no given process, and no given solution.