DOI: 10.1017/pds.2026.10452 ISSN: 2732-527X
From idea to creation: exploring designers’ real-time cognitive and emotional experiences throughout the design process
Samira Ashari, Alireza Habibi, Saba Moosavinezhad, Babak Amraee, Stefan Schmidt, Gaetano CasciniABSTRACT:
This study examines designers’ cognitive and emotional experiences during the design thinking process and the effect of time constraints. Using the MetaCogno tool, 83 participants reported moment-to-moment experiences across Problem Analysis, Ideation, Evaluation, and Sketching. Positive experiences dominated, with time-limited designers showing higher enjoyment, focus, and engagement. Findings highlight the dynamic interplay of cognition and emotion, and suggest that time pressure can enhance focus and motivation during design.