ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on data and variable operationalization, including defining types of data and variables often used in research in the design process. The chapter then moves into a discussion of how to balance research that includes collective data and individual stories, and the need for designers and architects to maintain their design vision alongside seeking input from others who may eventually inhabit, use, or engage with the design. Steps required for developing a good research question are introduced, along with ways that ethics and logistical considerations matter in the setup of a research project.
