In this fourth edition, Bryan Lawson continues his discussion, trying to understand how designers think. He does this by mapping out the issues concerned with the design process, with design problems and solutions and design thinking. This edition adds to the previous debates by including a new chapter on 'Design as Conversation' reflecting on how designers, either consciously or unconsciously, monitor, reflect on, control and change their thinking. It also includes a new series of case studies on notable designers including the racing car designer Gordon Murray, product designer James Dyson, and architects such as Edward Cullinan and Glenn Murcott.

Previous ed.: 1997.

The changing role of the designer -- Route maps of the design process -- The components of design problems -- Meaurement, criteria and judgement in design -- A model of design problems -- Problems, solutions and the design process -- Types and styles of thinking -- Creative thinking -- Guiding principles -- Design strategies -- Design tactics -- Design traps -- Designing with others -- Design as conversation and perception -- Towards a model of designing.