Designing vs. Devising

Attribute	Designing	Devising
Definition	Creating a plan or drawing for something to be made or built	Coming up with ideas or solutions through collaboration and experimentation
Process	Usually follows a structured process with specific steps	Often involves improvisation and exploration without a set process
Outcome	Results in a detailed plan or blueprint for implementation	Results in a unique and original creation or performance
Collaboration	May involve collaboration with other designers, clients, or stakeholders	Often involves collaboration with a group of devisers or performers
Flexibility	May have limitations based on constraints or requirements	Allows for more flexibility and adaptability in the creative process

Definition

Designing and devising are two terms that are often used interchangeably in the creative industry, but they actually have distinct meanings and processes. Designing typically refers to the process of creating a plan or blueprint for a project, whether it be a product, a building, or a piece of art. Designers often work within a set of constraints, such as budget, materials, and client preferences, to come up with a final design that meets the desired objectives. Devising, on the other hand, is a more collaborative and improvisational process that involves a group of individuals working together to create a piece of work from scratch, often without a predetermined outcome.

Process

When it comes to designing, the process is usually more structured and linear. Designers typically start by conducting research and gathering information about the project, then move on to sketching out ideas, creating prototypes, and refining the design based on feedback. Designing often involves a lot of iteration and refinement to ensure that the final product meets the desired criteria. Devising, on the other hand, is a more fluid and organic process. Devisers often start with a general idea or theme and then collaborate to develop the piece through experimentation, improvisation, and group discussion. The process of devising is often more open-ended and less predictable than designing.

Collaboration

One of the key differences between designing and devising is the level of collaboration involved. Designing is often a more solitary process, with designers working independently to come up with a final design. While designers may collaborate with clients, colleagues, or other stakeholders, the bulk of the work is typically done by the designer alone. Devising, on the other hand, is inherently collaborative. Devisers work together as a group to generate ideas, make decisions, and create the final piece. Collaboration is at the heart of devising, as each member of the group brings their own unique perspective and skills to the table.

Flexibility

Another key difference between designing and devising is the level of flexibility in the process. Designing often involves working within a set of constraints, such as budget, timeline, and client preferences. Designers must find creative solutions to meet these constraints while still achieving the desired objectives. Devising, on the other hand, is typically more flexible and adaptable. Devisers have the freedom to experiment, take risks, and make changes on the fly. The process of devising allows for more spontaneity and creativity, as there are fewer limitations on what can be explored and tried.

Outcome

Finally, the outcome of designing and devising can be quite different. When it comes to designing, the goal is usually to create a final product or solution that meets a specific set of criteria. Designers aim to produce a design that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and meets the needs of the client or end user. Devising, on the other hand, often results in a more experiential or process-oriented outcome. The final piece may be a performance, an installation, or a collaborative project that is more about the journey of creating it than the final product itself.

Conclusion

In conclusion, designing and devising are two distinct approaches to the creative process, each with its own set of attributes and benefits. Designing is often more structured, solitary, and focused on creating a final product that meets specific criteria. Devising, on the other hand, is more collaborative, flexible, and process-oriented, with an emphasis on experimentation and group dynamics. Both approaches have their place in the creative industry, and the choice between designing and devising ultimately depends on the goals, constraints, and preferences of the project at hand.