INNOVATIVE PARTICIPATORY DESIGN METHOD USING SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE PLATFORMS

Abstract

The study examines the effects of social media (SM), online platforms (OP) and digital instruments (DI) on participants' communication and the structure of the participatory design processes (PDPs). It addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the potential of these SM and OP to enhance stakeholders' involvement in PDPs. Through a case study of a participatory children's furniture design project involving diverse stakeholders, including children, parents, scholars, specialists, industry, university and the community, the study investigates how SM, OP and DI facilitate enriched and expedited communication in PDPs. The paper discusses these tools' challenges and opportunities within a conceptual framework. A mixed methodology approach is employed for data collection, incorporating observations, surveys, interviews and various participatory activities. By examining the findings, the study seeks to answer two key research questions: How do SM and OP influence communication patterns in PDPs? What is the impact of these DI on the structure and dynamics of the PDPs? The study proposes an innovative approach to overcome associated challenges. The positive effects of SM, OP and DI can significantly reshape the nature of participation in PDPs, such as the number of participants, the duration of the process and budget limitations.