The Universe of Design: Horst Rittel's Theories of Design and Planning

by Jean-Pierre Protzen, David Harris

This book examines the theoretical foundations of the processes of planning and design. When people – alone or in groups – want to solve problems or improve their situation, they make plans. Horst Rittel studied this process of making plans and he developed theories – including his notion of "wicked problems" – that are used in many fields today. From product design, architecture and planning – where Rittel’s work was originally developed – to governmental agencies, business schools and software design, Rittel’s ideas are being used. This book collects previously unavailable work of Rittel’s within the framework of a discussion of Rittel’s theories and philosophical influences.

Genres: Design

264 pages, Hardcover

First published May 6, 2010

About the author

Jean-Pierre Protzen is Professor Emeritus of Architecture at the University of California at Berkeley. He is the author of Inca Architecture and Construction at Ollantaytambo and several other publications on design theory and methods, Inca architecture, and construction techniques.