This study explores the use of multiple perspectives in design research workshops, drawing inspiration from the work of Nick Sousanis (2015). A literature review centered on multiple perspectives, in conjunction with Sousanis’s graphic novel Unflattening, advises that different modes and media should be employed in the workshop design. 

 

The workshop included two activities, a worksheet centered around creating a dating profile for money, and a barter exchange. The objective of the workshop was to explore people’s emotions and experiences towards money. The design of the worksheet and the barter exchange were centered around using images and text, and collaborative group working, respectively. The workshop was conducted and designed around young professionals who utilise visual media. Young professionals were defined in a previous study as those aged 18-30 years old, in white collar employment. 

 

The workshop results demonstrated the effectiveness of using a collection of different media to generate new ideas and solutions. In particular, the use of drawing produced a gendered image of money, and the collective nature of the barter brought changes in behaviour such as manipulation, persuasion and narratives into the experience. 

 

The implications of using Sousanis’s work as a reference for designing the workshop included the emphasis on multiple perspectives which helped to create a more creative and engaging workshop experience. However, Sousanis’s lacked attention to positionality. Positionality is the “practice of a researcher delineating his or her own position in relation to the study” (Qin, 2016). Without this, the workshop design allowed the focus to be on creative approaches and outcomes rather than the accessibility for non-creative people. 

 

This study suggests that diverse perspectives can be valuable for design and research workshops, by introducing different media and allowing participants to elaborate, insightful outcomes can be gained. However, it is essential to carefully consider the implications of using different media and to design workshops that are inclusive to all participants. It is key for the researchers understand their own position so as to not influence the design of the research. 

 

Keywords: multiple perspectives, design research workshops, Sousanis, creativity, positionality