THE SOCIAL DIMENSION IN CONSTRUCTION OF DESIGNERLY KNOWING

Abstract

The reflection based on literature presented in this exploratory article aims at understanding the special characteristics of knowing involved in design practice and particularly the yet somewhat undefined social dimension in its construction. Interpretation of the nature of design practice suggests that although designerly knowing is often the kind of knowing inseparable from the knower, it is not developed in individual isolation but as a result from social actions and active processes expanding and transcending personal and organizational limits. The understanding gained through varied social practices is seen as the basis for growth of designerly knowing.