Design Science method and theory in a construction and engineering context: “a phronetic tale of research”

Abstract

 Design Science as a research method offers the researcher a viable way of improving the outcome of research for both the researcher and the researched. In Construction and Engineering there is almost always the intention to better understand and then improve processes, materials or outcomes. Using two case studies of research adopting Design Science, one in Engineering and one in Construction, the advantages of the use of Design Science as the research method are highlighted. The desire to improve construction and engineering through a better understanding of “practical wisdom” or domain expertise through use of the concept of phronesis enables the researcher to build solutions that reflect the practices and processes practitioners actually need, enhancing their own knowledge through the collaborative research process and enabling the researcher to better reflect on what the research produced.