Tracks

More Than Human-centered Design

DEFINITION

Human-centered design reflects an ideology within our design culture where non-human agencies are as passive elements. A side effect of this paradigm is that the world increasingly prioritizes human short-term pleasure or conveniences. The “More than Human-Centered Design” track shifts focus to a more post-humanistic, post-materialistic, or feministic perspective, offering a broader and more inclusive horizon. This perspective encourages us to view our artificial design culture through the lens of practices, case-studies, and design theories, expanding the scope to include non-human agencies and their roles in shaping our world. Furthermore, this approach embraces the concept of design for meaningfulness, aiming to create designs that go beyond immediate gratification to foster long-term well-being, sustainability, and deeper connections across both human and non-human entities.

“More than human-centered design” is considered as a form of reflexive design research. For example, how can design adopt the perspectives of other living creatures on the Earth? How can we approach the environment, society, and culture as sustainable ecosystems that nurture rather than deplete diversity? In our design practice, how can we view technology and design as an agency that creates meanings, shapes our society, influences global connections, and even fosters creativity? Here, we sincerely invite contributions on, but not limited to, the following subjects:

REALM
  • Design for Meaningfulness
  • Non-human Agencies in Design and Interaction Research
  • Technological agencies in the post-humanistic era
  • Synergistic Design: Technology Design for Sustainable Society and Culture
  • Field-based / Ethnographical (including autobiographical, auto-ethnographical) Design Research
  • From Universal Design to Pluriversal Design
  • Undesign or Reductive Design
TRACK CHAIRS

Wei-Chi Chien(Industrial Design, National Cheng Kung University)
Yu-Ting Cheng(Design, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology)
Gizem Oktay(Eindhoven University of Technology)
Joon Sang Baek(Integrated design, Yonsei University)
Nazli Cila(Department of Human-Centered Design, Delft University of Technology)
Shinichi Koyama(Design Psychology and Kansei Science, University of Tsukuba)

Design Futuring

DEFINITION

Design Futuring is a forward-looking design approach that integrates speculative design, design fiction, and participatory futuring to envision and shape possible, probable, and preferable futures. It critically examines the present, challenges dominant narratives, and creates alternative pathways for sustainable, ethical, and inclusive societal transformation. By blending imagination, critique, and collaboration, it expands the role of design beyond conventional problem-solving toward future-oriented interventions.

As we stand at the crossroads of unprecedented social, technological, and environmental change, Design Futuring serves as a catalyst for imagining what comes [NEXT]. It transcends conventional problem-solving by embracing uncertainty, speculation, and collective foresight to explore alternative futures. The track aligns with the IASDR 2025 theme of [Next] by questioning existing paradigms, anticipating emergent disruptions, and fostering new ways of thinking about design’s role in shaping the world ahead. From critical narratives that interrogate AI and automation to participatory futuring methods that engage communities in co-creating their own futures, Design Futuring provokes discourse and action towards resilient, just, and adaptive futures. By combining research, practice, and artistic exploration, this track invites fresh perspectives on the role of design in crafting futures that are not only imaginable but also actionable.

This track welcomes interdisciplinary contributions from areas including, but not limited to, speculative and critical design, human-computer interaction, urban planning, sustainability, policy design, media studies, and education. We invite researchers, practitioners, and educators to explore how Design Futuring can redefine methodologies, create novel artifacts, and drive meaningful transformations in response to global challenges. Through theoretical insights, case studies, and experimental work, this track aims to expand the discourse on how design can actively shape alternative futures.

REALM

We welcome submissions addressing the following themes:

  • Speculative Design
  • Design Fiction
  • Participatory Futures
  • Ethics and Sustainability in Futures
  • Critical Perspectives on Design Futures
TRACK CHAIRS

Rung-Huei Liang(National Taiwan University of Science and Technology)
Wenn-Chieh (Joe) Tsai(National Taiwan University)
Chang Hee Lee(Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)
Tuck Wah Leong(Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology)
Yasuaki Kakehi(The University of Tokyo)

Design, Art & Technology

DEFINITION

The intersection of Design, Art, and Technology represents a fusion of disciplines that propels human creativity and innovation forward. In the realm of design, technology serves as a catalyst, enabling new forms of expression and functionality, while art infuses this synergy with critical perspectives and aesthetic experiences.

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence, the Metaverse, Internet of Things, virtual reality, augmented reality, immersive projection, physical media, robotics, cyberspace, and speculative design have fostered a convergence of Design, Art, and Technology. This triad cultivates an environment where boundaries are pushed and conventional norms are challenged, promoting a culture of experimentation. As we look to the future of these interconnected fields, it is evident that they will continue to shape our world in profound ways—from how we interact with our environments to the methods we employ to craft meaningful experiences and narratives through Design, Art, and Technology. The track will delve into this dynamic interplay, exploring how these disciplines can collaborate to create solutions that are not only technically sound but also culturally resonant and creatively compelling.

REALM

We warmly welcome contributions encompassing but not limited to: interpretive and empirical studies on creative practices in design, art, and gaming; critical analyses of cases that speculate about possible futures, alternate presents, or even hypothetical pasts; experimentations and reflections on applying emergent technologies to create novel experiences or craft narratives; development and demonstration of design or technical frameworks for expression or persuasion.

  • Novel Experiences through Emerging Technologies
  • Applications of Technology in Art and Design
  • Digital and Generative Art (e.g., creative coding)
  • Interactive or/and Immersive Media
  • Tangible and Embodied Interactions
  • AI-Driven Creativity in Design, Art, and Gaming
  • Speculative Design
TRACK CHAIRS

Chun-Cheng Hsu(National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University)
Ka-Nin Kenny Chow(Hong Kong Baptist University)
Daniel Echeverri(Masaryk University)
Sheng-Hung Lee(Industrial Designers Society of America)
Yi Su(National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University)
Yasuaki Kakehi(The University of Tokyo)
Anthony Dunne(The New School / Parsons School of Design)

Human-Centered AI

DEFINITION

Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently demonstrated impressive performance and versatile applicability across many domains. Embracing the vision of human-centered AI—where AI augments rather than replaces human intelligence—we aim for a cooperative relationship that leverages the complementary strengths of humans and AI. By anticipating potential benefits or harms to individuals and society and mitigating them through careful design, we seek submissions that advance our understanding of designing AI-infused products and systems.

Emerging AI systems operate within existing societal, cultural, and institutional frameworks. AI algorithms show promise for wide applicability, and we already see instances where AI outperforms humans in areas such as enhanced search results, conversational agents powered by large language models (LLMs), autonomous driving, medical diagnostics, and various industrial applications. Some of these innovations enhance the productivity and convenience of daily life, while others boost production efficiency. However, like any emerging technology, AI can be a double-edged sword if not managed carefully.

Embracing the vision of human-centered AI, future products and systems must be designed to be transparent—allowing users to understand AI reasoning, recognize its limitations, and effectively incorporate its support, particularly when making critical decisions. Moreover, designers must consider the sociocultural contexts that shape ethical impacts in the real world.

REALM

We welcome work that deepens our understanding of designing AI-infused products and systems from a human-centered perspective. Below are six topic areas of special interest:

  • Design for AI: Creating AI-infused products and systems.
  • Design with AI: Utilizing AI to assist, augment, or automate the design process.
  • Design of Agents and Robots: Exploring the design challenges of intelligent agents and robotics.
  • Empirical Studies: Investigating user experiences with AI applications.
  • Responsible AI: Examining ethical, legal, and social considerations in AI development.
  • Case Studies: Analyzing both successful and failed implementations to glean practical insights.
TRACK CHAIRS

Yuan-Chi Tseng(National Tsing Hua University)
Ya-Liang Chuang(National Tsing Hua University)
Dajung Kim(Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology)
Gary Hsieh(University of Washington)
Janet Huang(Eindhoven University of Technology)
Juan Carlos Chacón Quintero(Chiba University)
Mathias Funk(Eindhoven University of Technology)

Design Thinking

DEFINITION

Design thinking is a human-centered innovation approach, traditionally structured around "empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test." However, its application extends beyond a fixed process, adapting to diverse contexts and evolving through practice. In recent years, design thinking has facilitated interdisciplinary collaboration and played a key role in addressing complex societal and technological challenges.

As we move forward, it is crucial to examine how design thinking was, is, and could be practiced to foster innovation in an era of rapid transformation. This theme explores how design thinking adapts to emerging needs and technological advancements, focusing on the following key areas:

REALM
  • Evolving Practices and Cultural Shifts – Understanding how design thinking is cultivated as a mindset across different cultural and organizational settings.
  • Interdisciplinary and Cross-Domain Applications – Investigating its integration with various fields, from business and education to public policy and beyond.
  • Technology and Design Convergence – Exploring its role in AI-driven and digital transformations to enhance creativity and problem-solving.
  • Ethics, Social Impact, and Sustainability – Addressing global challenges like equity, climate change, and ethical design practices.
  • Future of Design Thinking in Education – Adapting methodologies for the AI era to nurture next-generation innovators.
TRACK CHAIRS

Min-Yuan Ma(National Cheng Kung University)
Chia-Han Yang(National Cheng Kung University)
Yuichi Washida(Hitotsubashi University)
Peter Lloyd(Tu Delft)

Co-creation

DEFINITION

Co-creation is an approach that integrates collaborative, participatory, socio-technical, and community design practices. It identifies interconnected needs and supports the creation of effective solutions. This approach redefines traditional design structures by emphasizing collaborative engagement across boundaries and domains.

As design challenges grow more complex, co-creation offers a framework for inclusive innovation, ensuring designs are equitable, adaptable, and responsive. In doing so, it redefines the role of designers as facilitators and mediators of processes that integrate ecosystems, communities, and socio-technical systems.

The theme of Co-Creation: Transforming Design for the Future invites contributions that advance the understanding and application of co-creation, exploring its potential to reshape the future of design.

REALM

Submissions from diverse disciplines and practices are encouraged to reflect the multidimensional and transformative nature of co-creation. Contributions are welcomed on (but not limited to) the following topics:

  • Theoretical Frameworks and Models
  • Empirical Research
  • Methods and Techniques
  • Practical Experiences and Case Studies
  • Justice in Co-Creation

Co-Creating With...
Examining co-creation with diverse communities, non-human entities, artificial actors, and ecosystems to address complex systemic challenges and shape future scenarios.

TRACK CHAIRS

Fang-Wu Tung(National Tsing Hua University)
Meichun Liu(University of Washington)
Andrea Botero(Aalto University)
Bokyung Lee(Yonsei University)
Byungsoo Kim(North Carolina State University)
Gabriele Ferri(Eindhoven University of Technology)
GuanZe Liao(National Tsing Hua University)
Isabel Prochner(Virginia Tech)

Service Design for Public Services and Policies

DEFINITION

Service design for public service policy has received increasing attention over the last few decades. Service design methods and tools have been widely applied to generate citizen-centered insights, stimulate systemic innovation, and improve service value delivery through productive multidisciplinary engagement, value co-creation, agile & iterative approach, and coherent experience design in the public sectors.

REALM

The track Service Design for Public Services and Policies welcomes articles focusing on service design that address public agenda setting, formulation, implementation, evaluation, and optimization of public service policies that can help policymakers and those who deliver public services identify a meaningful way to navigate through complexity in an era of exponential change (such as GenAI).

  • Best Service Design Practices in Public Services and Policies
  • Digital Transformation through Service Design in the Public Sector
  • Service Design for Citizen Engagement and Value Co-creation
  • Service Design with AI for Public Services
TRACK CHAIRS

Tung-Jung Sung(National Taiwan University of Science and Technology)
Anna Whicher(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
Jung-Joo Lee(National University of Singapore)
Kenta Ono(Chiba University)
Seungho Park-Lee(Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology)

Circular/Sustainable Design

DEFINITION

The Circular/Sustainable Design track highlights the role of design research in transitioning from traditional linear models to circular economies, where resources are kept in use longer, reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. This shift requires modular design, resource recycling, and product life cycle optimization to enhance efficiency and address global challenges like climate change and resource depletion, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Sustainable design extends beyond resource management, incorporating innovative materials, energy conservation strategies, and user engagement methodologies. Design research plays a critical role in fostering behavioral change, digital sustainability, and systemic design strategies that drive circularity across industries and communities. The integration of emerging technologies and localized knowledge enables new pathways to sustainability, ensuring that design actively contributes to ecological and social well-being.

REALM

This track welcomes empirical studies, theoretical explorations, and experimental approaches that advance circular design research, addressing key areas such as:

  • Sustainable Product and Service Systems
  • Circular Economy and Regenerative Design
  • Eco-innovation and Sustainable Material Exploration
  • Digital Sustainability and AI-Driven Design
  • Behavioral Change and User-Centered Sustainability

By deepening circular design research, this track fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and positions design as a catalyst for sustainability-driven transformation, shaping innovative strategies for a more regenerative future.

TRACK CHAIRS

Jui-Che Tu(National Yunlin University of Science and Technology)
Wan-Ru Chou(Shih Chien University Department of Industrial Design)
Lenneke Kuijer(Eindhoven University of Technology)
Minako Ikeda(Kyushu University)
Young-ae Hahn(Yonsei University)

Healthcare Design

DEFINITION

Healthcare Design explores innovative solutions that enhance care and patient wellbeing, optimise medical environments, and improve healthcare workflows. This track highlights human-centred design practices that drive innovation in care, improve the usability and user experience of medical products and services and /or integrate digital technologies for continuous monitoring and data-driven care management.

In alignment with the "Design Next" theme, this track examines the evolving role of design in shaping the future of healthcare. It focuses on the intersection of emerging technologies, human-centred innovation, and systemic improvements. Key areas include AI-driven diagnostics, implementation of healthcare innovation, telemedicine and healthcare at home, assistive technologies, and sustainable healthcare practices. Additionally, it investigates how design identifies and addresses unmet needs in patient recovery, infection control, and overall well-being.

REALM

Potential contributions include:

  • Human-centred medical product and service design
  • Digital health and AI-driven healthcare solutions
  • Telemedicine and remote patient care innovations
  • Assistive and inclusive healthcare technologies
  • Sustainable healthcare design
  • Spatial design for improved patient outcomes and well-being
  • Data-driven care optimisation
  • Equitable and accessible healthcare strategies
TRACK CHAIRS

Kevin C. Tseng(National Taipei University of Technology)
Geke Ludden(University of Twente, Netherlands)
Hwang Kim(Ulsan National Institute of Science & Technology)
Shinichi Koyama(University of Tsukuba)
Zhao Chao(Tsinghua University)

Design Practices & Impacts

DEFINITION

The Design Practices & Impacts track focuses on the transformative power of design across private, public and third sectors. Papers are sought that explore deep research and impactful applications across different domains and cultural contexts. We seek more pluralistic accounts of designing for impact in different contexts. Key areas of interest include foundational theories and models that advance design practices, empirical research evaluating contemporary methods, and innovative tools enhancing the design process. Critical and reflexive case studies showcasing successes, challenges and failures, are highly encouraged. Moreover, we invite contributions that examine how emerging technologies and broader trends are seamlessly integrated into design workflows, particularly in addressing challenges of sustainability, inclusivity, and social impact.

The track Design Practices & Impacts welcomes contributions encompassing but not limited to: innovative service design approaches that challenges traditional industrial models; strategies for stakeholder participation and co-creation that foster collaborative and responsible innovation; design interventions that amplify value in response to emerging industry, societal and environmental needs; and empirical studies or case analyses demonstrating constructive facilitation and engagement of stakeholder dynamics and collaborative processes. Such contributions will help shape the future of design by addressing current trends, overcoming challenges, and unlocking new opportunities, thereby advancing the discourse on design practices and their transformative impacts.

REALM
  • Transformative Design
  • Empirical Research
  • Service Design Innovation
  • Stakeholder Engagement
  • Social Impacts
  • Cultural contexts
TRACK CHAIRS

Tsen-Yao Chang(National Yunlin University of Science and Technology)
Ching-Chiuan Yen(National University of Singapore)
Joon Sang Baek(Yonsei University)
Joyce S.R. Yee(Northumbria University)
Miki Imai(Osaka Institute of Technology)

Culture and Craft Design for Regenerative Practices

DEFINITION

Craft has always been a point of reference when it comes to the changes that were taking place in society. Craft skills were seen as a mark of personal expression and achievement at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, and they were the driving force in the first attempts to establish an industrial design education. More recently, craft was mobilized by makers’ culture to support innovation in the design and use of digital tools and performative materials. In an era of globalization and urbanization, regions face challenges like population growth and/or decline, loss of cultural heritage, and economic stagnation. This symposium explores how cultural design strategies, participatory practices, and storytelling can encourage a local identity and revitalize communities by facilitating the dialogue between old and new practices.

The track Culture and Craft Design for Regenerative Practices invites submissions exploring how culture and craft design drive sustainable community development and creative economies. This track examines the evolving narratives of tradition, innovation, and sustainability, highlighting the new role of cultural assets and craft practices. Topics may include integrating traditional crafts into contemporary design, cultural tourism’s role in regional economies, and the socio-economic impact of craft-based enterprises. The track also addresses questions about safeguarding indigenous craftsmanship while embracing digital tools and smart technologies. Papers on hybrid design processes, material innovation, and cross-cultural and interdisciplinary collaborations that redefine craft, design, and engineering are encouraged.

REALM

Submissions from diverse disciplines are welcome to foster dialogue and collaboration among researchers, educators, and practitioners dedicated to using culture and craft design as tools for sustainable growth and regional renewal.

  • Regenerative practices of culture and craft design
  • Innovative craftsmanship
  • Experimental craft techniques
  • Cultural heritage
  • Regional revitalization
TRACK CHAIRS

Tien-Li Chen(National Taipei University of Technology)
Wei-Ken Hung(National United University)
Akira Ueda(Chiba University)
Hui-Wen Lin(National Cheng Kung University)
I-Ying Chiang(National Tsing Hua University)
Jeanne Tan(The Hong Kong Polytechnic University)
Liang Jia-Haur(National Taiwan University of Arts)
Tincuta Heinzel(Loughborough University)

Design Education

DEFINITION

Design education is undergoing a remarkable transformation, characterized by the seamless integration of digital technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a profound emphasis on sustainability. This evolution is driven by the imperative to equip students with the skills necessary to tackle complex real-world challenges through innovative problem-solving and user-centered design practices.

The concept of [NEXT] is intricately linked to these advancements. As design education embraces cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), it prepares future designers to navigate and influence emerging trends. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, educators are empowering students with a diverse skill set essential for creatively and responsibly addressing global challenges. This alignment not only enriches the learning experience but also positions design as a vital catalyst for societal change.

These trends illuminate the dynamic and evolving landscape of design education, creating vibrant opportunities for academic exploration and professional growth. Moreover, there has been a significant increase in the application of data analytics and AI in design processes, facilitating more informed and efficient decision-making. The growing focus on user-centered and inclusive design practices ensures that solutions are accessible and equitable for diverse populations. These developments underscore the transformative potential of contemporary design education and its crucial role in shaping future designers who are adept at confronting global challenges with creativity and responsibility.

REALM
  • Integration of Technology or AI in Design Education
  • Sustainability and Social Responsibility
  • Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Approaches
  • Human-Centered and Empathic Design
  • Cultural Dimensions in Design Education
TRACK CHAIRS

Yen Hsu(Tatung University)
Yu-Hung Chien(National Taiwan Normal University)
Cees de Bont(National University of Singapore)
Chun-Di Chen(National Taipei University of Education)
Erik Bohemia(Western Norway University of Applied Sciences)
Kwanmyung Kim(Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology)
Toshimasa Yamanaka(University of Tsukuba)
Tsailu Liu(Virginia Tech)