Fixation or inspiration? A meta-analytic review of the role of examples on design processes
We conducted a meta-analysis of studies examining the effect of examples on design. Examples led individuals to explore the problem space more narrowly and deeply. The presence of example reduced the variety of the design solution ideas. The presence of example improved the novelty and quality of the solution ideas. Providing one single and uncommon example facilitated the design processes most.
fixation creativity innovation design process(es) design strategy