The design process, especially its conceptual phase, is characterised by frequent decision-making activities that have a major impact on the product itself – namely the cost and time associated with development and launching to market. It is therefore important to understand communication in teams and the way in which ideas are generated and how individuals share information. This study uses a protocol analysis to categorise the context of communication in the conceptual phase of the design process. The study is based on recorded team sessions. Groups of 3 students majoring in mechanical engineering were given 60 min to create and propose a single concept for a product that had to meet defined requirements. In order to analyse the context of communication within the groups, a coding scheme based on MOED ontology is used. Analysis focuses on MOED activities' number and respective timeshares as well as the transition in communication between MOED activities. In addition to the MOED activities, the individual contributions of team members are analysed using the same method. The data gathered from these sessions is then compared with previously conducted research studies. A conclusion is then formed with the aim of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the design process.
