Evidence-Based Design and Research-Informed Design: What's the Difference? Conceptual Definitions and Comparative...

Area of Science:

• Design Theory
• Knowledge Translation
• Research Methodology

Background:

• Evidence-based design (EBD) faces critiques for rigidity and misapplication.
• Practitioners increasingly use research-informed design (RID), but its definition remains unclear.
• Ambiguity in EBD and RID terminology may hinder research integration in design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine and compare the conceptual meanings of EBD and RID.
• To clarify underlying assumptions to facilitate practical application and theoretical advancement.
• To differentiate EBD and RID for improved clarity in design research.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Walker and Avant's concept analysis methods.
• Defined conceptual meanings, process descriptions, and evaluation methods for EBD and RID.
• Compared the distinct characteristics of each design approach.

Main Results:

• EBD and RID, while sharing similarities, are conceptually distinct.
• Evidence-based (EB) design applies a broad base of evidence narrowly.
• Research-informed (RI) design applies narrow research broadly to the design product.

Conclusions:

• Confusion between EBD and RID stems from differing practitioner and academic perspectives.
• Thoughtful dialogue is essential for disciplinary development in design.
• The article aims to stimulate discussion on the precise application of research in design.