Researching Design Fiction With Design Fiction

Abstract

The term design fiction was first used in 2005 by Bruce Sterling [18:30] and in 2009 Julian Bleecker built on the idea by combining it with various other characterisations [cf. 1,2,10] and catalysed a step change in design fiction discourse. Since then design fiction has gained significant traction across academic contexts; at symposia and conference events; and through its practice within commercial design studios and industry. Despite becoming a popular way of framing speculative design, the characterisation of design fiction as research approach still remains "up for grabs" [19:22] as it is -- enticing and provocative, yet [...] remains elusive" [7:1]. In 2013 Bleecker remarked in terms of his studios own practice "I don't think we've figured it out" and that studying it, understanding it and trying to devise some of the principles - of what we're calling design fiction - is what we're trying to do? [1]. Adopting a research through design approach [5,6], this doctoral research intends to shed light on the questions raised by Bleecker by researching design fiction, with design fiction.