CHOOSE THE RIGHT MATERIAL! EXPERT AND USER INTERACTION IN PARTICIPATORY DESIGN

The only way to create a shared understanding of an idea in the design process is to convert it in a tangible prototype. This paper investigates how the tangibility level of a prototype can affect the interaction between designers and end users. We found that the sequence of prototyping materials to use for each phase of the design process depends upon the end user. Things such as age, background and personal skills are very important in choosing the right material. Less tangible prototypes works in brainstorming while ones that are more tangible are perfect for the testing phase.