Most interaction research primarily addresses design methods, focusing on narrower issues, such as icon design or specific types of testing. This workshop challenges conventional interaction design processes by demanding an answer to the larger question of what needs to be done. Design strategies define activities within the constraints of time and resources. These strategies help the designer to select the best mix of creative and rational methods. Since user interface design involves many issues, it is necessary to apply well-chosen strategies to optimize the design process.
Design methods help formalize problem solving procedures and techniques.
This formalization reduces errors and oversights in the design process. The use of design methods helps to externalize thoughts and ideas, forcing the designer to be more explicit. For a long time, designers have dealt with ill-defined problems which caused them to develop a variety of skills and methods necessary to generate creative solutions. A broader approach, combining these two schools of thought, is necessary to deal with the complexity of interaction problems in the future. Position papers will be used to develop more detailed and focused activities for the workshop.