Objective Designers’ Post

Form follows Function ... There is an expression "Form follows Function". It is a principle of design associated with late 19th- and early 20th-century architecture (and industrial design in general). It states that the shape of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function or purpose. Makes perfect sense, really. But what does Function follow? I suggest that "Function follows Flow" This principle that suggests the function or purpose of something should be shaped by the flow of energy, information, or activity that moves through it. Here are a few ways to think about this idea: In systems design, the functions of components are often determined by understanding the flows of inputs and outputs between them. The flow of data or materials through a system guides the roles and operations of its parts. In process design (part of our work), the function of each step or stage is defined by its place in the overall flow of work. The sequence and interaction of activities shapes the purpose of each step. In organisational design (another part of our work), the functions of teams and individuals are frequently determined by the flows of communication, decision-making, and work that connect them. The patterns of collaboration and coordination shape roles and responsibilities. In nature, the functions of organisms and ecosystems are often a response to the flows of energy, nutrients, and information in their environment. The flows of resources and signals shape the roles and behaviours of living things. The principle of "function follows flow" suggests that to understand and design effective functions, we need to first map and understand the flows they are a part of. By optimising and aligning these flows, we can create functions that emerge naturally and perform well. This is a different but related idea to the first idea of "Form follows Function," which is about how the shape of something should be based on its purpose. "Function follows flow" is more about how purpose is shaped by the context of movement and exchange it is embedded in. So, if Form follows Function and Function follows Flow, what does Flow follow? LinkedIn doesn't allow me enough words to tell you that yet - you'll have to wait for the next post! In the meantime, interested in your ideas below!

  • Form follows Function - but whaty follows Function?

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