Direct vs. remote data collection methods in co-design: navigating the evolving landscape
Elizabeth Sanders, Yvette Shen · CoDesign · 2025
This paper explores the dynamic realm of co-design, specifically examining the shift from direct to remote data collection methods catalysed by recent global challenges. The paper introduces a structured top-down approach to selecting co-design methods by first addressing fundamental questions about the objectives and desired outcomes of the co-design project. This preliminary step significantly refines the selection process, tailoring it to specific project needs. The approach continues by identifying the relevant area within the landscape of methods, which includes the dimensions of individual versus group, synchronous versus asynchronous, and direct versus remote settings. A direct vs. remote matrix is then used to assess various methods against crucial criteria such as participant engagement, process efficiency, and data quality. Reflections from two co-design projects, one real and one hypothetical, are presented, demonstrating the practical application of this approach and highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing co-design practices across diverse settings.