Problem-solution co-evolution research in the DRS conference community (2001-2025)
Biskjaer,Michael Mose Halskov,Kim de Rooij,Alwin
Biskjaer,Michael Mose
Halskov,Kim
de Rooij,Alwin
Abstract
The problem–solution co-evolution model proposed by Dorst and Cross (2001) remains highly influential for understanding design processes. This paper contributes a scoping review of DRS conference proceedings (2001-2025), revealing how the model has been adopted, developed, and critiqued. A thematic synthesis of a corpus of sixteen DRS papers shows how the model has been used to frame, connect, and extend foundational design theories by pointing to the crucial role of mutual adaptation of problem and solution. We find that problem and solution spaces are considered distinct and interdependent. Co-evolution is conceptualized and studied through several conceptual lenses, e.g., cognitive, social, and systemic, based on a pluralistic, yet interwoven collection of classic design theory. We discuss how problem–solution co-evolution research might be advanced through 1) design space representation and visualization, 2) co-evolution seen as a flexible boundary concept, and 3) psychological creativity research on problem construction.
Description
Date
2026-03-11
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Keywords
Problem space, Design space, Solution space, Co-evolution, Design theory
Citation
Biskjaer, M M, Halskov, K & de Rooij, A 2026, 'Problem-solution co-evolution research in the DRS conference community (2001-2025)', Paper presented at Design Research Society Conference 2026, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, 8/06/26 - 12/06/26.
License
info:eu-repo/semantics/restrictedAccess