External support of problem analysis in design problem solving

Design is described as creative design problem solving. The first step of t he design process is to identify and analyze the design problem. This step has an important influence on the creation of an effective design solution. In two experiments, we tested the benefits that sketching provides during the analysis process in design problem solving. In particular, this paper f ocuses on the design process, the act of sketching, the sketch itself and t he final product. In prior studies. the process of sketching has been shown to enhance the construction of a mental representation, and thus the sketc h has improved the analysis of the problem. The memory supporting effect of sketches is verified in the second experiment discussed in this paper. Fin ally, this paper also discusses the support possibilities the sketch offers for the early stages of the design process.