Deconstructing Visual Representation in Design: A Comprehensive Model of Sketching Activities in Design Process

Sketching is a fundamental design skill essential across various design disciplines. This study aims to develop acomprehensive model describing sketching activities throughout the design process, addressing the lack of unifiedframeworks in this area. Through a systematic review of existing sketch taxonomies, a generic classification frameworkwas developed and integrated with the Uncertainty Driven Action (UDA) model. The resulting integrated modelincorporates four main parameters: cognitive approach, intention, function, and complexity. It provides a structuredapproach to analyzing sketching behaviors across four design stages: investigation, exploration, explanation, andpersuasion. Proof of concept, including prototype testing and scenario analysis, preliminarily demonstrated the model’sfeasibility, integrity, and accuracy in describing sketching activities. The proposed model bridges the gap between staticsketch taxonomies and dynamic design process models, offering a theoretical foundation for understanding the role ofsketches in design thinking and problem-solving. It has potential applications in design education, research, and tooldevelopment across various design fields, including product, service, and interaction design. This interdisciplinaryapproach contributes to a deeper understanding of design cognition and representation, potentially enhancing designteaching and practice. Future research directions include empirical validation, exploration of collaborative aspects, andintegration with digital design tools.