five modes and nine variations of integration between hcd and futures design

Human-centered design and futures design both offer different routes to alternative, new designs. human-centered design employs a need-based, problem-based, or deficit-based approach. through the use of a shared, preferred future vision, futures design utilizes an asset-based approach, potentially leading to different, present-day design choices than a human-centered design process. without knowing which methodology offers a preferred present-day design for the current needs of customers using existing services, designers may choose to integrate the two methodologies, gaining the benefits of both, a type of mixed-methods approach. instead of mixed methods implying the combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, in this context, mixed methods means combining asset-based and need, problem, or deficit-based approaches. however, combining human-centered design and futures design can be confusing, especially with the multiple roles design can play in the futures process (for example design futures versus futures design). i attempt to clarify how the methodologies can be integrated by sharing five modes and nine variations of integration along with their relative advantages and disadvantages.