Design Theory and Computer Science »

The author examines logic and methodology of design from the perspective of computer science. Computers provide the context for this examination both by discussion of the design process for hardware and software systems and by consideration of the role of computers in design in general. The central question posed by the author is whether or not we can construct a theory of design.

Preface;

Part I. The Architectonics of Design:

1. The inadequacy of definitions;
2. Design as the initiation of change;
3. The nature of design problems;
4. The form of design solutions;
5. The evolutionary structure of design processes;

Part II. Design Paradigms:
6. The concept of a design paradigm;
7. The analysis-synthesis-evaluation paradigm;
8. Formal design;
9. Plausibility driven design;
10. Computer aided design I: the algorithmic approach;
11. Computer aided design II: harnessing knowledge, search and heuristics.