Investigating the Sound Design Process

This paper evaluates a novel method to elicit information about sound creative processes. This method forms part of a broader project, researching the transferring of knowledge borne from creative traditions and practices found in sound design for media production, to sonic interaction design (SID). We present the results of a pilot with two professional sound designers, one from a background in sound design for game production, and another with a background in sonic art and game development. We briefly describe the overall study procedure before focusing on a specific aspect of it, i.e., the novel method we have devised consisting of three design briefs to be tackled by sound designers. A thematic analysis of both sound designers is undertaken, where we identify eight main themes and three sub-themes. We then compare and contrast how each designer tackles the briefs to achieve their desired outcome. Finally, we evaluate the effectiveness of the method employed.