Functionalist design is based on the use of unicist functionalist principles to design business functions, physical or virtual objects, in adaptive environments. This approach allows for managing the roots of the functionality of business functions and the root causes of problems.

Functionalist design is based on beginning with an intuitive approach to defining an initial hypothetical solution to a problem that provides the guiding idea of the design process by developing a prototype.

The prototype is then tested in a real-world environment through pilot tests. These tests provide feedback and insights into the functionality and effectiveness of the prototype, allowing for adjustments and improvements to be made.

The design process also involves a diagnostic stage, where the problem or situation is analyzed and understood in depth. This includes identifying the root causes and understanding the wider context that influences the system.

Based on this diagnostic analysis, the functionalist design process develops a detailed operational design. This includes defining the necessary binary actions and creating a prototype of the final solution.

The operational design is then validated through pilot testing and destructive testing. Pilot tests confirm the operationality of the solution, while destructive tests validate the functionality and adaptability of the solution, as well as the validity of the functionalist principles used.

If necessary, the design process may go through recycling, where failures or shortcomings are addressed by revisiting the diagnostic stage and making adjustments to the design.

Overall, functionalist design is a participative and iterative process that aims to empower the functionality of business processes in adaptive environments. It combines conceptual thinking, diagnostic analysis, prototype development, and testing to create effective and adaptable solutions.

The Unicist Research Institute