The Missing Technician in Industrial Production

The Missing Technician, published in 1944, emphasizes the importance of industrial design and the procedure of a design research committee, which proved highly effective in coordinating the work of industrial designers and production technicians. It highlights the value of materials like aluminum and plastic, as well as glass and cast iron, especially when handled in new ways made possible by 20th-century techniques.

Format: Hardback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1944, The Missing Technician delves into the crucial role of Industrial Design in the early stages of product planning. It outlines the process of a design research committee, a practical collaboration between industrial designers and production technicians, which proved highly effective in coordinating their work. The book emphasizes the value of materials such as aluminum and plastic, while also stressing the significance of glass and cast iron, particularly when approached through innovative techniques made possible by 20th-century advancements.

The Missing Technician highlights the importance of considering materials from various perspectives. It recognizes the economic and practical advantages of aluminum and plastic, highlighting their durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. However, it equally emphasizes the unique qualities and potential of glass and cast iron, recognizing their historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and the innovative ways in which they can be manipulated and utilized in modern manufacturing processes.

By examining the role of these materials in Industrial Design, The Missing Technician provides valuable insights into the creative process and the interplay between design, technology, and materials. It encourages designers to explore new materials and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in product design. The book serves as a reminder of the enduring value of traditional materials and the potential for innovation and creativity to be found in even the most familiar materials.

In conclusion, The Missing Technician is a seminal work in Industrial Design that emphasizes the importance of beginning the design process with a thorough understanding of materials. Through its exploration of aluminum, plastic, glass, and cast iron, the book provides valuable insights into the creative process and the interplay between design, technology, and materials. It serves as a reminder of the enduring value of traditional materials and the potential for innovation and creativity to be found in even the most familiar materials.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032365886