Reading Response #5: Stage 3: Conceptualization pg. 71-96

"Conceptualization" talks about how to bring ideas to life.  According to Aspelund, a design concept is "an abstract vision that needs to become tangible."  But how exactly does an abstract idea become tangible?  By brainstorming, of course!  Brainstorming is a process of spontaneously thinking and sharing as many ideas as possible about a topic without being judgmental.  It can be a very effective tool that allows one to examine a concept and fully explore what it's all about.  Brainstorming allows one to visualize a concept's development.  Aspelund goes over rules on how to brainstorm successfully, such as focusing on having many ideas and encouraging the process of  freewheeling.

Aspelund also presents 6 perspectives to consider when brainstorming an idea:

1. Description
2. Comparison
3. Association
4. Construction
5. Use
6. Troubleshooting

I've always found brainstorming useful because it helps me to freely express my ideas without having to worry about a right or wrong answer.  From reading this chapter, I've picked up a few pointers on how to brainstorm more effectively.  I think using the aforementioned 6 perspectives while brainstorming would definitely help me organize and express my ideas more efficiently.