Tim Parkin

Tim Parkin

Visual communication subject director; Associate Professor Ngā Pae Māhutonga Wellington School of Design

Tim Parkin is a practicing designer whose research focuses on the trans-disciplinary field of experience design. His work investigates the use of design thinking and user centred processes to develop solutions for social innovation and civic engagement. Parkin teaches in the School of Design at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

  • Expertise

    Service design, design thinking, brand communication, sustainability, visual communication.

    View Tim Parkin’s expertise directory profile.

  • Research Highlights

    Space Between online platform (2015)
    This research investigates online user experience strategies and e-commerce processes to motivate an ethical shift in the fashion industry by challenging concepts of fast fashion and planned obsolescence.

    On The Fence: Design & Democracy Project (2014)
    On The Fence is a product of the Design & Democracy Project, developed in partnership with industry partner Springload. It is an educational web tool that empowers young undecided and first-time voters to become active civic participants by matching their personal values with political parties.

    Designing the library of the future (2014)
    This paper explores the application of design thinking processes to advance the relevance of libraries within 21st century civic life. It yields insights into how innovative digital platforms can facilitate improved user experiences, specifically from a millennial perspective.

    Scoop ice-cream instillation (2013)
    The instillation demonstrates how design-led processes offer a powerful tool to develop and commercialise science research. The project was a collaboration with Massey food scientists and illustrated the innovation that occurs when you bring together diverse professional disciplines.

    Starfish Fashion Branding System (2012)
    An investigation into values based communication strategies to demonstrate strong environmental and social commitments within an industry that subscribes to concepts of planned obsolescence.

  • Qualifications

    BDes(Hons) (Victoria University)
    MDes (Massey University)

  • Professional Affiliations

    Designers Institute of New Zealand (DINZ)