CASE STUDY METHOD FOR DESIGN RESEARCH

Abstract

(corresponding author) Case studies are used in design research to analyze a phenomenon, to generate hypotheses, and to validate a method. Though they are used extensively, there appears to be no accepted systematic case study method used by design researchers. Considering its nature and objectives, the case study method could be a suitable method for conducting design research. However, the ‘scientific method ’ of conducting research is considered to be the only appropriate method. Many times, design researchers have to confront questions about the validity of using case studies and their results. The objective of this paper is to justify the use of the case study method in design research. A brief overview of case study method is also included. Requirements are derived from the general characteristics of design research. Four popular research strategies are evaluated with respect to the requirements. A preliminary benchmark study suggests that case study method is most suitable for design research.