DESIGN FUTURES ART-DRIVEN (DFA) METHOD

DFA Method, a structured and innovative approach that combines Design Futures (Design + Futures Thinking) with Art Thinking approach to facilitate collaboration between artists, technologists, and companies. It helps to anticipate emerging trends in technologies and specific domains, transform current challenges into future opportunities, and drive sustainable and responsible innovation.

The goal of DFA method is to support artists and SMEs to collaboratively develop future scenarios and prototypes of innovation. To see the DFA use cases to show the potential of the method, you can visit the page DFA Projects and Use Cases that were developed during the MUSAE project.

Design Futures Art-driven method (DFA)

DFA method follows four main phases – Horizon Scanning and Visioning which lead to the development of the future scenario, and Ideating and Prototyping which lead to a future-driven prototype.

The DFA method is designed around a clear workflow that guides artists, companies, and DIHs through a structured innovation process, comprised of a variety of activity:

  • Workshop activities – Facilitated sessions between artist and SME
  • Individual activities – Research and creative exploration tailored to artist and SME individually
  • Assessment meetings – Regular evaluations to refine intermediate and final outputs and align with industry needs

The DFA method is available as an open-source website, which can be accessed through the MUSAE Factory Model.

MUSAE Factory Model

MUS.AI

The platform also includes four interactive maps that provide prompts to support artists in the use of AI as a co-creator throughout the process.

DFA METHOD AND TOOLS

DFA method comprises:

  1. DFA Platform: An open-source platform which visually guides artist and SME through key stages of the process and includes the description of all DFA activities, materials and instructions.
  2. Miro collaboration platform: A specifically designed workspace for artists and companies to gather research insights, document the progress, and share the results.
  3. Integration of AI tools: The DFA platform features suggestions to leverage AI as a co-creator in the innovation journey.

VALUE OF THE DFA METHOD

Art-tech collaborations – where artists engage with scientists, companies, and technologists – are increasingly recognized as key drivers of digital and technological development. These collaborations not only fuel innovation but also encourage reflection on the societal and environmental impacts of emerging technologies.

The DFA Method is designed to help companies and Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs) integrate creative futures thinking and strategic planning into their innovation process. It provides:

  • Future-driven insights – researching emerging trends, analyzing signals, and building strategic future scenarios to stay ahead.
  • Creative disruption – Leverage artistic methodologies to challenge assumptions, unlock unconventional ideas, and inspire groundbreaking innovations.
  • Strategic collaboration – connecting with artists, technologists, and industry leaders through a structured framework that fosters alignment, co-creation, and measurable progress.

With the DFA Method, companies gain access to a structured approach to innovation – helping them lead in their industry, create meaningful impact, and build a sustainable future.