How do common household items such as basic plastic house wares or high-tech digital cameras transform our daily lives? "The Design of Everyday Life" considers this question in detail, from the design of products through to their use in the home. Drawing on interviews with consumers themselves, the authors look at how everyday objects, ranging from screwdrivers to photo management software, are used on a practical level. Closely investigating the design, production and use of mass-market goods, the authors offer new interpretations of how consumers' needs are met and manufactured. They examine the dynamic interaction of products with everyday practices. The Design of Everyday Life offers a fresh perspective on material culture, drawing crucial--and previously overlooked--links between design, consumption and use.

Author Biography:
Robert Jerrard is Professor of Design Studies at the Institute of Art and Design, University of Central England. He has published widely and his research interests include risk assessment in design, ethnicity and entrepreneurship, and work based learning.
David Hands is Senior Research Assistant at the Istitute of Art and Design, University of Central England. He has worked and published widely in the area of design policy analysis.
Jack Ingram is Chair of the Programme of Postgraduate Design courses at the institute of Art and Design, University of Central England. He has published widely and is co-founder and executive editor of The Design Journal.

How do common household items such as basic plastic house wares or high-tech digital cameras transform our daily lives? "The Design of Everyday Life" considers this question in detail, from the design of products through to their use in the home. Drawing on interviews with consumers themselves, the authors look at how everyday objects, ranging from screwdrivers to photo management software, are used on a practical level. Closely investigating the design, production and use of mass-market goods, the authors offer new interpretations of how consumers' needs are met and manufactured. They examine the dynamic interaction of products with everyday practices. The Design of Everyday Life offers a fresh perspective on material culture, drawing crucial--and previously overlooked--links between design, consumption and use.