March 10, 2004—InformeDesign, reportedly the first searchable database of design and human behavior research on the Web, just celebrated the first anniversary of its launch. The site is sponsored by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and was created by the University of Minnesota.
In 2003, more than 280,000 pages of Research Summaries were downloaded from the site, more than 500 Research Summaries were posted and available via the site’s searchable database, and approximately 3,000 designers, architects, educators, and students became InformeDesign registered users. The monthly newsletter, Implications, which delves into one research-related design subject area per issue (the current edition discusses the influence of culture on design), was also introduced.
Creators say that in 2004, the services available on InformeDesign will become even more comprehensive, technically enhanced, and user-friendly. More than 500 new Research Summaries will be added to the site and a new online tutorial on research basics, “Research 101,” is already available.
In 2004, InformeDesign will also host a variety of Webcasts that will combine instruction and interaction, led by professionals working on the front lines of research-related design issues. The first, on commercial “green” design/LEED, took place in late February. All Webcasts will be available for live viewing or archival download shortly after broadcast. CEU credits will be offered for both “Research 101” and all Webcast presentations through ASID.
