Page 64 - Design meets Business:An Ethnographic Study of the Changing Work and Occupations of Creatives

Abstract
This study highlights the relevance of craftsmanship as a lens to better un- derstand the work of designers, and to clarify the role of material practices at work. We did an ethnographic study at a design firm, in which designers had to radically change their work due to a major organizational transfor- mation. Whereas previously the designers especially developed finished products (e.g. digital ‘screens’), they extended their remit to the design of abstract outcomes (e.g. ‘stories’). Even though the renewed situation called for the designers to ‘drop their tools’, they found it extremely difficult to let go of former material practices. Designers continued to make and use artifacts such as prototypes and poster presentations. Engaging in such material practices, helped the designers to emotionally connect with their work, to establish a sense of control over design processes, and to differ- entiate themselves from other occupations. This study contributes to or- ganizational studies on design by showing that designers do not only use material practices to develop innovative solutions but also to perfect their craft, and to research on craftsmanship by suggesting that for craftsmen it might be hard to change their work because they enact certain material practices out of habit.