Designing in a group: How can knowing each other influence design projects?

This paper presents a study of engineering design groups that seeks to explain how knowing other participants can influence processes and outcomes in design projects. Literature on the role of individuals and groups in design projects is reviewed, identifying an increasing current interest in collaborative design work. This research focuses on understanding how interpersonal relationships influence group processes and outcomes in design. From a pilot study, a framework for analysis is developed with a temporal perspective and introduces the concept of identity with rationale for case selection and case propositions. Both individuals and groups are considered where influences in group interaction and development can be captured.