Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in Product Design

This study explored how design students and practitioners perceive the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in product design, with a focus on perceived value and risk. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research first used a structured survey and then conducted in-depth interviews. The study identified five key dimensions influencing perception: functional, emotional, social, economic, and security/copyright. Participants recognized AI’s functional benefits in improving efficiency, data analysis, ideation, and usability. Practitioners also emphasized the value of AI in visualization and anticipated the introduction of more advanced features. Emotionally, participants expressed ambivalence—welcoming AI’s potential to reshape creative roles, while voicing concerns about diminished creative competitiveness and job security. Social perceptions reflected the influence of organizational and educational cultures, with supportive environments fostering acceptance, while ongoing concerns about authorship and authenticity persisted. Economically, participants viewed AI as cost-effective, though they acknowledged the need to manage data security and copyright risks with proper safeguards. These findings underscore the importance of adaptive training programs and clear policy frameworks in facilitating the effective adoption of AI in product design. This study provides foundational and comprehensive insights into how stakeholders across academic and corporate settings perceive AI integration.