Descriptive research in design is a type of research methodology that aims to describe the characteristics of a population or phenomenon being studied. It does not answer questions about how, when, or why the characteristics occurred, which is why it is often used as a precursor to more quantitative studies. For instance, descriptive research in design might involve studying the behavior of users interacting with a website or application, observing what they do, and recording their actions.

In the context of design, descriptive research can be done through various methods:

1. Observation: This involves watching and recording the behavior of users in their natural environment. This method is often used in usability testing where designers observe how users interact with a design. The goal is to identify usability issues and understand user behavior.

1. Surveys and Questionnaires: Surveys and questionnaires are commonly used methods for collecting data in descriptive research. They can be used to gather data about users’ attitudes, preferences, or experiences with a design.

1. Case Studies: Case studies involve an in-depth examination of individual or group behavior in a real-life context. In design, case studies can provide detailed insights about how a design solution works in a real-world setting and how users interact with it.

While the methods listed above can provide valuable insights, it's important to remember that descriptive research does not establish cause-and-effect relationships. It is primarily used to observe and describe behavior, rather than to explain why that behavior occurs. Therefore, it often serves as a starting point for further exploratory or experimental research.