Managing a toolbox of innovative design methods: the case of the IDEAS initiative for agri-food systems design

Abstract : In this presentation, we propose to use a theoretical framework based on design theory in order to manage a pool of innovative design tools and methods. We apply this generic framework to five innovative design methods related to the IDEAS initiative. Led by researchers of the French National Institute for Agronomy research, IDEAS helps developing, implementing and accompanying the use of innovative design approaches in the field of agronomy and food science. In the case of multiple design methods, we show that an approach relying on design theory helps analyzing the impacts and specificities of each method, but also provide insights to better develop these methods and their impact on innovative design.