The Universe of 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 developed theories. This book collects the work of Rittel's within the framework of a discussion of Rittel's theories and philosophical influences.
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.