What are some effective ways to differentiate between fads and trends in design?

2 Look at the data

Another way to differentiate between a fad and a trend is to look at the data and evidence that support or refute them. How popular and widespread are they? How consistent and reliable are they? How do they compare to other alternatives or competitors? A fad usually has a sudden spike and decline in popularity, while a trend has a steady growth and stability. For example, the use of chatbots and voice assistants in design is a trend that is backed by data on user behavior and satisfaction, while the use of QR codes and flash animations in design was a fad that was based on hype and novelty.

3 Look at the value

A third way to distinguish between a fad and a trend is to look at the value and benefit that they offer to the users and the clients. How useful and relevant are they? How do they solve a problem or improve a situation? How do they align with the goals and values of the stakeholders? A fad usually has a superficial and temporary value, while a trend has a meaningful and lasting value. For example, the use of minimalism and accessibility in design is a trend that enhances the user experience and meets the standards and regulations, while the use of gradients and shadows in design was a fad that added visual interest and depth.

4 Look at the context

A fourth way to differentiate between a fad and a trend is to look at the context and environment that surround them. How adaptable and flexible are they? How do they respond to the changes and challenges in the market and the society? How do they fit into the bigger picture and the future vision? A fad usually has a narrow and isolated context, while a trend has a wide and integrated context. For example, the use of responsive and adaptive design is a trend that responds to the diversity and complexity of devices and users, while the use of fixed and rigid design was a fad that ignored the variability and dynamism of the web.

5 Look at the feedback

A fifth way to differentiate between a fad and a trend is to look at the feedback and opinion that they receive from the users and the peers. How do they perceive and evaluate them? How do they react and interact with them? How do they influence and inspire them? A fad usually has a mixed and short-lived feedback, while a trend has a positive and long-term feedback. For example, the use of storytelling and emotion in design is a trend that engages and connects with the users and the peers, while the use of gimmicks and tricks in design was a fad that annoyed and distracted them.

6 Look at the innovation

A sixth way to differentiate between a fad and a trend is to look at the innovation and creativity that they generate and require. How original and unique are they? How do they challenge and improve the existing practices and paradigms? How do they open up new possibilities and opportunities? A fad usually has a low and limited innovation, while a trend has a high and continuous innovation. For example, the use of artificial intelligence and augmented reality in design is a trend that creates and transforms the user interface and interaction, while the use of stock images and fonts in design was a fad that copied and reproduced the same look and feel.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?