Virtual ethnography as a strategy of knowledge management in the design process

Abstract

The following article demonstrates the implementation of a knowledge management strategy within the stage of collection and analysis of information in the design process. The objective was to experiment in the field of virtual ethnography during the design process. Using social networks as new forms of data collection and analysis (that are in development) to determine its relevance and applicability. Experiment validation was carried out during the development of the degree project “Design of a sports footwear collection inspired by the 'Bogotanidad'”. It consisted of collecting, comparing and analyzing social media information (opinions, images, videos) about Bogotá. In conclusion, a methodology created for the analysis of social network information is obtained, as an approximation to the virtual ethnography applied to the design process.

Keywords: Virtual ethnography, industrial design, cultural identity, knowledge management, design methodology.