Memo+9

Abstract

The aim of this study is to advance knowledge and understanding of design within the outdoor/adventure sports industry, including, the design process, connection between the culture and design, sustainability connections and performance.

This study will draw on and extend scholarly literatures that examine:
 * 1) User centered design and alternative design methods
 * 2) Motives behind the industry
 * 3) Trends within the sports and within the gear

Data for the study will be collected through the following studies:
 * 1) Interviews
 * 2) Literature Review
 * 3) Examining current and past design and culture trends

Results of the this study demonstrate:
 * 1) Cultural trends are strongly connected with the design trends within the industry
 * 2) Cultural/Lifestyle motives, beliefs, etc. are often represented and projected within the designs themselves.
 * 3) Both media and technology have played large roles in developments and design in the industry.

Findings from this study, indicate that the following kinds of change is called for:
 * 1) Alternative design techniques can be used within the design process
 * 2) Sustainability should be a more important part of the design process
 * 3) Further research about connections between cultures and design