Workshops Day – 02

Dr Mohammad Shahid and Dr Saurav Deori (IIT Hyderabad)

Abstract:
Effective communication is vital for fruitful learning & teaching, whether in a classroom setup or online platform. It seems, day by day, we are becoming a visually mediated society with a flow of information through different visual aids such as graphs, posters, PowerPoint presentations, video clips, etc. However, designing those visual aids requires certain skills and some visual design sensitivity. Sessions in this workshop are intended to discuss basic visual design principles and techniques to help young researchers, especially those from engineering backgrounds, in terms of effective research communication in the design discipline.

Swati Meherishi, Editorial Director, Springer

Abstract:
The face of scientific publishing is changing at a very fast pace. Transitions from print to electronic, onset of open access publishing and change in research demographics by geography, are a few of the issues being talked about in the publishing world today. How do these changes affect researchers? How can young researchers leverage these transitions to make their work visible? What is Open Access Publishing? What are citations and how are they calculated? These
are just a few questions that Springer’s Author Workshops address. In this particular Author Workshop Lecture, Swati Meherishi will speak briefly about the transitions in and the needs of the publishing world and how young researchers need to prepare for it. This author workshop has been devised specifically as a resource for teaching non-native English-speaking researchers, particularly young scientists how to achieve publication success.

Outcomes of the workshop:
Some of the key topics covered during this presentation are:
1. Writing for International Journals: Structure, Style and Accuracy: How to structure a journal paper, what are the relevant sections,how should they be composed, dos and don’ts for each section, language tips when writing journal articles;
2. Selecting a Journal for your Manuscript: What factors to consider when selecting a journal, how to find journals relevant to your topic area, what do journal editors look for in papers;
3. Peer Review and you: The peer review process, how does it work, timelines for review and publishing, what do peer reviewers look for, how to respond to review comments;
4.Publication Ethics: What are the ethical issues in publishing, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, ethical clearances, authorship disputes, how to treat data, where to get advice on ethics. Plagiarism, Citations, Open Access: The Buzzwords of publishing: What are citations, how are impact factors calculated, indexing databases, what is open access, benefits of open access, types of open access publishing Avoiding pitfalls: How to avoid predatory journals, what to do if a paper is
rejected, tools and tips to avoid structure, language, style errors.

Who it is intended for (who should participate):
Anyone interested in publishing their work in peer reviewed journals.

Yash Bohre, IIT Bombay & MADA, Monash University and Agnivesh Sharma, IIT Bombay
yashbohre@iitb.ac.in

Topic of the workshop:
The Role of Generative AI in Enhancing Design Research, Education, and Creativity

Abstract:
This workshop focuses on equipping designers, researchers, and educators with essential skills to effectively integrate Generative AI (Gen-AI) tools into their practices. With the rapid advancements in AI, these tools are becoming indispensable for tasks such as brainstorming, creating course structures, planning assessments, and conducting design research. The session will begin with a brief introduction to Gen-AI, followed by a live demonstration of selected tools to showcase their potential. Participants will then learn to craft effective AI prompts that can optimize their workflows. The core activity involves collaborative group work, where attendees will use cue cards to complete guided tasks leveraging AI tools. By the end of the workshop, participants will have practical experience in applying Gen-AI for real-world design and research challenges. This hands-on session is structured to be engaging and highly interactive, fostering creativity and collaboration within the 1.5-hour timeframe.

Broad Timeline: 0–10 minutes: Introduction to Gen-AI and workshop goals.10–30 minutes:
Demonstration of tools and prompt writing techniques. 30–80 minutes: Group activity using cue cards
and AI tools. 80–90 minutes: Wrap-up, feedback, and discussion.

Outcomes of the workshop:
Attendees will gain:
1. Hands-on experience with novel Gen-AI tools for design and research
2.Practical skills in writing effective AI prompts
3. Insights into integrating Gen-AI into course planning delivery, and assessment
4. Strategies for AI-assisted design brainstorming and innovation
5. A collaborative and experiential learning opportunity with fellow designers and educators

Who it is intended for (who should participate):
This workshop is designed for: Design researchers exploring innovative methodologies; Educators
looking to enhance teaching strategies with AI; Designers seeking tools to streamline creative
processes; Anyone interested in leveraging Gen-AI for problem-solving in design.

Akanksha Singh (IIT Bombay and MADA, Monash University)
akanksha.s@iitb.ac.in

Topic of the workshop:
Exploring empathy in design : Tools, Techniques, and Applications across the design process

Abstract:
This workshop aims to deepen participants’ understanding of the role of empathy in contemporary design practices. Through interactive activities and discussions, the workshop will explore how empathy can be operationalized and applied at various stages of the design process. Participants will be provided with a toolkit containing character cutouts, scenario flashcards, and a deck of cards representing different design stages. Working individually or in teams, they will select a design stage and use the toolkit to brainstorm ways to empathize with the user or stakeholder. Participants will then translate their ideas into tangible solutions, documenting their approach on a provided template. The workshop will begin with an introduction to the concept of empathy in design, differentiating it from related concepts. Examples and tools for incorporating empathy will be demonstrated, followed by the hands-on activity. Throughout the session, participants will be encouraged to share their experiences and insights on applying empathy in their own design projects. By the end of the workshop, participants will have a better grasp of how empathy can be leveraged to inform design decisions and lead to more user-centric solutions. The interactive format will foster collaborative
learning and inspire participants to explore empathy-driven design in their future work.

Outcomes of the workshop:

By attending this workshop, participants will:
1. Gain a deeper understanding of the role of empathy in contemporary design practices
2. Learn how to operationalize empathy and apply it at various stages of the design process, from ideation to implementation
3. Explore concrete tools and techniques for fostering empathy
4. Practice translating empathetic insights into tangible design solutions through hands-on activities
5. Share experiences and learn from peers on how empathy has informed their own design work

Who it is intended for (who should participate):
This workshop is tailored to anyone eager to explore empathy as a transformative tool in design. The interactive format and hands-on activities make it suitable for designers and design-adjacent professionals across different industries and organizational contexts regardless of their experience level or background.

Mayank Mayookh and Dr Srinivasan Venkataraman (IIT Delhi)
mayank.mayookh@design.iitd.ac.in

Topic of the workshop:
Design methods and methodology

Abstract:
The objective of this workshop is to identify the benefits and challenges experienced by design students, practitioners, and educators in understanding, and using design methods. The workshop will have the following 2 phases:

Phase 1: Attendees will be divided into multiple groups, and each group will be given a design problem to solve. The attendees will be introduced to some design methods from which they will select methods for solving the given design problem. The time required for this phase is 60 minutes.
Phase 2: Once the groups have come up with a solution for their design problem, they will participate in a focus group discussion which will be based on the following questions: What did they like/ dislike about the design methods they used? Why did they choose certain design methods over the others? What challenges did they face in understanding the design methods? What challenges did they face in using the design methods? The time required for this phase is 30 minutes.

Outcomes of the workshop:
The attendees will get to learn new design methods and will understand the benefits of using design methods in solving a design problem. They will also get to know the challenges faced by (design method) users in understanding and using design methods. From these challenges, design educators can also gain an understanding of how design methods can be taught better to the students.

Who it is intended for (who should participate):
Design students, design practitioners and design educators

David Dallal (IIT Guwahati), daydreamstudioo@gmail.com

Topic of the workshop:

SHATAP: Creative Collaborate to Innovate – Reimagining Urban Renewal through Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration This workshop focuses on the role of designers as entrepreneurial leaders in urban renewal projects. Participants will explore how creative collaboration between traditional crafts and contemporary professions can preserve cultural heritage while fostering innovation and sustainable development. Through the Thiya 14 case study, the workshop demonstrates how designers can be
active partners in the entire urban development process, ensuring that historical and community values are integrated into modern city transformations.

Abstract:
Urban renewal often prioritize skyscraper construction and real estate development, displacing traditional communities, erasing historical spaces, and causing the decline of traditional crafts. These trends threaten the social and cultural fabric of cities, creating homogenous environments and neglecting the principles of sustainable urban living. the case study offers an alternative approach. This project transformed an underutilized urban space into a creative community hub, blending heritage preservation with contemporary urban needs. By integrating designers, artists, and craftspeople from the project’s inception, it demonstrates how urban renewal can sustain cultural heritage while fostering innovation and collaboration. Key lessons from Thiya 14 underline the importance of involving designers as entrepreneurial partners throughout the urban renewal process, from ideation to realization. This approach ensures inclusive, community-centered urban
development. The workshop is a 1.5-hour where participants will explore this methodology through interactive exercises.
The session includes: • Introduction (10 minutes): Overview of urban challenges and case study highlights. • Group Activity (40 minutes): Collaborative design exercises combining traditional crafts with modern professions. • Presentations and Feedback (25 minutes): Sharing ideas and receiving constructive input. • Reflection and Closing (15 minutes): Discussion of insights and practical applications. Participants will leave equipped with tools to foster innovative, inclusive urbandesign practices.

Outcomes of the workshop:
1.Understanding the Designer as an Entrepreneur: Participants will learn how designers can act as entrepreneurs, taking an active role in all stages of urban renewal projects, from conception to execution, ensuring the integration of community and cultural values.
2.Exposure to the Case Study: Attendees will explore the ״Thiya 14 ״ case study, gaining insights into how an underutilized urban space was transformed into a creative hub that balances heritage preservation with modern urban needs.
3.Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Participants will gain an understanding of how combining traditional crafts with modern professions can lead to innovative solutions that support both cultural heritage and urban sustainability.
4. Practical Tools for Creative Collaboration: Participants will leave with actionable strategies and insights on fostering collaboration and innovation in their own urban design projects, applying the lessons learned to future initiatives.

Who it is intended for (who should participate):
Desingers, architects, urban desingers

Shivam Jaiswal and Dr. Srinivasan Venkataraman (IIT Delhi)
inform.shivamjaiswal@gmail.com, srinivenk@iitd.ac.in

Topic of the workshop:
Design Representation, Design Prototyping, Design Evaluation

Abstract:
This workshop is designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of prototype evaluation and an overview of the developed framework of metrics. The session will explore the diverse types of prototypes, from virtual to physical, and the spectrum of fidelities, including low, medium, and high-fidelity prototypes. Attendees will be asked to develop a prototype for a specific design problem and will be asked to evaluate the prototype using a relevant set of metrics. The number of identified metrics and their relevance to the design problem will be discussed. Then attendees will also be asked to use a developed framework of metrics to identify the number of metrics and their relevance. Attendees will learn about various evaluation metrics and categories essential for assessing both virtual and physical prototypes. The workshop will be interactive, encouraging participants to discuss and share their perspectives on key evaluation metrics, their definitions, and processes. By the end, participants will have a comprehensive framework for evaluating prototypes effectively. The first 20 minutes will cover a welcome, objective setting, a presentation on prototype evaluation, and the framework demonstration. The next 30 minutes will focus on rapid prototyping for a specific design problem. In the following 10 minutes, participants will identify metrics for evaluation without the framework. The next 10 minutes will involve applying the framework to evaluate the prototype. The final 10 minutes will discuss the relevance of the identified metrics. The last 10 minutes will be for closing and open discussion.

Outcomes of the workshop: what the attendees will gain by attending the workshop
(A) A Solid Foundation in Prototype Evaluation, (B) Hands-on Experience with Prototyping, (C) Knowledge of Evaluation Metrics and Categories, (D) Application of a Developed Framework, (E)Analytical Skills in Evaluating Prototypes, (F) Collaborative and Interactive Learning, and (G) A Comprehensive Framework for Future Evaluations

Who it is intended for (who should participate)
Design Students, Design Professionals, Design Academicians

Dr. Prabir Sarkar (IIT Ropar), Renee Wever (Linköping University, Sweden), Pidaparti Ramana
(University of Georgia, US), Maier Anja (University of Strathclyde, Scotland)
85sunilsharma@gmail.com

Topic of the workshop:
AI-Powered Creativity: Revolutionizing Design Processes and Outcomes

Abstract:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the design industry, enabling professionals to push creative boundaries, optimize workflows, and solve complex problems efficiently. This workshop, titled AI- Powered Creativity: Revolutionizing Design Processes and Outcomes, offers a hands-on exploration of

AI tools and techniques that enhance the design process. Participants will learn to integrate AI into product development. The 1.5-hour session will cover the fundamentals of AI in design, showcasing real-world applications and case studies with instructions on using common AI design tools. Attendees will engage with AI design tools, and learn to develop AI powered designs. The workshop will also enhancing human creativity through AI based designs. By the end of this interactive session, participants will have gained practical knowledge of how AI can augment their design processes, improve efficiency, and inspire innovation. This workshop is ideal for researchers, designers, educators, and students eager to embrace the future of design. Prior knowledge of AI is not required.

Agenda
• Introduction to AI in Design (25 minutes) o Overview of AI technologies reshaping the design landscape (e.g., generative AI).
o Examples of AI-driven breakthroughs in different fields such as product design, architecture, and industrial design.
• Hands-on Demonstration: AI Design Tools (20minutes)
o Introduction to accessible AI design platforms (e.g., DALL·E, MidJourney, Adobe Firefly, Runway ML).
o Interactive exercise: Participants will use an AI tool to create and iterate on a design
concept.
• AI-Driven Problem Solving in Design (30 minutes) o Brainstorming solutions to a design challenge (e.g., sustainable packaging or inclusive product design) using AI inputs.
• Q&A and Next Steps (10 minutes)
o Open forum for participant questions.
• Post workshop feedback (5 minutes)

Outcomes of the workshop:
By the end of this workshop, participants will:
• Gain insights into how AI tools are applied in design.
• Develop basic hands-on experience with AI tools.
• Be inspired to innovate using AI to enhance creativity, and efficiency

Who it is intended for (who should participate)
Design professionals, researchers, educators, students, and industry practitioners

Deepak Kumar (School of Planning and Architecture Vijayawada)
arcdeepak.spa@gmail.com

Topic of the workshop
From Anxiety to Enjoyment: Innovative solutions for Public Toilets That Kids Love

Abstract:
The workshop aims to focus on exploring concepts and innovative design solutions for public toilets tailored to the unique need of children. Often neglected in terms of design and accessibility, these facilities are crucial in public areas. The workshop will tackle the obstacles kids encounter when using public toilets and present imaginative, feasible solutions to enhance safety, comfort, and engagement. Participants will initially gain insights into children’s specific requirements for restroom design, encompassing aspects such as physical accessibility, emotional well-being, privacy, and self-reliance. The session will examine how various developmental stages impact toilet usage, spanning from toddlers to older children, and how to incorporate these insights into practical designs. Through collaborative exercises and real-world examples, participants will first identify a key issue in public restroom design and then will generate innovative ideas, including adaptable fixtures, entertaining elements to alleviate anxiety, enhanced accessibility, and design that create a welcoming and secure environment for children. The workshop will emphasize on developing design solutions that promote independence, allowing children to use restrooms confidently without adult supervision.

Workshop Structure:
1. Introduction: 10 minutes
2. Understanding Children as users: 20 minutes
3. Method of research with Children: 30 minutes
4. Research and designing for children: Design Challenge brief(5 minutes) and Team Work (15 Minutes), Total 20 minutes 5. Discussion and Q&A: 10 minutes

Outcomes of the workshop:
1. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the specific needs of children in public restroom environments, including physical, emotional, and cognitive considerations.
2. It will inspire participants to approach future restroom design projects with creativity and empathy for young users.
3. It will foster collaboration among participants from diverse fields, such as architecture, urban planning, and product design.

Who it is intended for (who should participate):
Urban Planners and Designers; Architects; Product Designers for Public Infrastructure; Government and Policy Makers; Facilities Managers and Public Space Managers; Parents and Caregivers (Informally); Educators and Child Development Specialists; Non-Profit Organizations Focused on Accessibility and Children’s Rights

Dr Jyoti Kumar, Dr Pramod Khadilkar, Dr Srinivasan Venkataraman, Dr Jay Dhariwal (IIT Delhi)
jyoti@design.iitd.ac.in; prakha@design.iitd.ac.in; srinivenk@design.iitd.ac.in; jay@design.iitd.ac.in;

Topic of the workshop:
From UX to SX: Design Thinking for Sustainable Behaviours

Abstract:
World’s urgency to move towards sustainable lifestyles cannot be achieved without designers (of all kinds) shooting their creative arrows in select directions synchronously for decades to come. This will require designers to get some handy tools to enable creative design processes to deliver sustainable behaviour goals. This workshop will discuss sustainable behaviours in framework of strategic user experience design using design thinking tools.

Outcomes of the workshop:
Experience of identifying sustainable design problems in user lifestyles and attempting to solve it using given toolkit

Who it is intended for (who should participate):
Academicians, Industry Professionals and Students