Theoretical explanation of “Y-gaya” through general design theory
Year: 2017
Editor: Anja Maier, Stanko Škec, Harrison Kim, Michael Kokkolaras, Josef Oehmen, Georges Fadel, Filippo Salustri, Mike Van der Loos
Author: Oizumi, Kazuya; Aoyama, Kazuhiro
Series: ICED
Institution: The University of Tokyo, Japan
Section: Design Theory and Research Methodology
Page(s): 121-130
ISBN: 978-1-904670-95-7
ISSN: 2220-4342
Abstract
“Y-gaya”, which is a habit that engineers thoroughly discuss for long period of time, has been seen as a prominent mechanism to realize synthesis of design leading to actualization of brand new product. Though its effectiveness has been discussed empirically and given philosophical explanations, there has never been any theoretical explanation or systematized methodologies. This paper attempts to understand effectiveness of “Y-gaya” based on general design theory as a theoretical foundation. As a result, it is found that quite large part of “Y-gaya” could be understood through general design theory, whereas there are some factors (such as culture and human factors) still not to be proven or explained. In the end, this paper discusses future prospects for systematization of “Y-gaya”.
Keywords: Design theory, Design practice, Organisation of product development, Teamwork, Creativity