Study on Design Research using Semantic Network Analysis

Abstract

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the potential of sematic network analysis for design research. Background: As HCD (Human-Centered Design) was emphasized, lots of design research methodologies were developed and used in order to find user needs. However, it is still difficult to discover users' latent needs. This study suggests the semantic network analysis as a complementary means for design research, and proved its potential through the practical application, which compares multi-screen purchase and usage behaviors between America and China. Method: We conducted an in-depth interview with 32 consumers from USA and China, and analyzed interview texts through semantic network analysis. Cross cultural differences in purchase and usage behaviors were investigated, based on measuring centrality and community modularity of devices, functions, key buying factors and brands. Results: Americans use more services and functions in the multi-screen environment, compared to Chinese. As a device substitutes other devices, traditional boundaries of the devices are disappearing in the USA. Americans consider function to recall Apple, but Chinese consider function, design and brand to recall Apple, Sony and Samsung as an important brand at the time of their purchase. Conclusion: This study shows the potential of semantic network analysis for design research through the practical application. Semantic network analysis presents how the concepts regarding a theme are structured in the cognitive map of users with visual images and quantitative data. Therefore, it can complement the qualitative analysis of the existing design research. Application: As the design environment becomes more and more complicated like multi-screen environment, semantic network analysis, which is able to provide design insights in the intuitive and holistic perspective, will be acknowledged as an effective tool for further design research.