NCJ Number
214077
Date Published
2005
Length
46 pages
Annotation
This chapter explores the use of design against crime (DAC) measures, particularly the design of moveable products for the prevention of crime.
Abstract
The focus of the chapter is on defining and linking concepts in both crime and design as well as examining the cyclical processes in the life of designs. The concept of DAC is described as both a relatively narrow strategy of crime intervention found mainly within the domain of situational crime control, such as the design of environments, and a broad approach that has applicability within every other type of crime intervention strategy. The chapter begins by defining crime, prevention, and DAC. Design products used to prevent crime are identified as places, buildings, and organizational systems; electronic, procedural, and organizational systems; two-dimensional material of fabrics, banknotes, and messages; and solid three-dimensional objects. Given the wide girth of DAC options, any crime prevention intervention can be improved through the use of design. Good and bad designs from a DAC perspective are presented before the author moves to on a focus on movable and mainly industrially produced material products of two or three dimensions aimed at the prevention of civil crime. How these products prevent crime is considered as the author points out that products can serve as: (1) a target of crime; (2) a target enclosure; or (3) a resource for offenders. The four broad ways of securing products against crime are described, as is the product design process, which involves the identification of market needs, research about users and contexts, and the development of prototypes. Intelligence and intervention issues in the product design process are confronted and include issues related to the law and ethics, the environment, safety, and convenience. Notes, references