Artifactual Relations in UCD

Abstract

This explorative article presents theoretical and methodological implications of User Centered Design (UCD) from a perspective of socio material-relations and a theory of performative artifacts. The process of “asking users” is rarely treated as a design artifact that can be interrogated in and of itself. The article introduces a perspective on UCD as a “material-relational activity”. Thus, through the lens of a failed workshop, the article takes a closer look at the shaping properties artifacts, and how artifacts interact and produce results.