Research Methodology:
The Process of the Module:
Although I had prior experience with very basic techniques of research, this
module had been prepared in such a way that the various research methods were
covered in a meticulous way even though there was shortage of time. The topic
refrigerator, at a first glance is seemingly suspicious and plain; however, when we
got into the process, we realized that there are a lot of things about something as
mundane as fridge that we have never given much thought about. It was after we
delved into the process that we discovered certain nuances and observed how it
is almost an integral part of any household.
The contextual enquiry regarding how each member interacts with the fridge,
gave a variety of information and insights which were seemingly hiding in plain
sight but almost indispensable in the daily life of the household.
The surveys and the interviews which were done gave a comprehensive idea
about how the refrigerator is viewed in the Indian households. It gave rise to
insights that could provide opportunities for design interventions and for the
betterment of the users. It gave critical insights on matters of high social
significance like gender roles in family, the concept of home and family itself.
Besides these, the ergonomics and the general design decisions revolving the
fridge as a product were also addressed during the entire module.
The future of Research:
These insights provide us with future scope of intervention. Using the already
existing survey questionnaire and interview records, the study can be furthered to
come up with comprehensive design briefs that will help us integrate the
refrigerator more smoothly into our daily lives.
The research can be also focused on one of the major social issues to come up
with a research paper which can summarize all the learnings and possible
interventions.