How can you stay updated on the latest commercial design trends?

1 Follow online sources

One of the easiest and most accessible ways to stay updated on the latest commercial design trends is to follow online sources that showcase, analyze, and discuss them. You can find blogs, magazines, podcasts, newsletters, social media accounts, and websites that focus on different aspects of commercial design, such as product development, user experience, sustainability, branding, and innovation. Some examples are Core77, Dezeen, Design Milk, Fast Company Design, and Yanko Design. You can also use online platforms like Behance, Dribbble, Pinterest, and Instagram to discover and follow the work of other industrial designers.

2 Attend events and workshops

Another way to stay updated on the latest commercial design trends is to attend events and workshops that offer opportunities to learn from experts, network with peers, and get inspired by new ideas. You can look for local, national, or international events and workshops that cover topics related to your field of interest, such as design conferences, exhibitions, festivals, awards, competitions, hackathons, and webinars. Some examples are the International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA), the Red Dot Design Award, the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) Conference, and the World Design Summit.

3 Join online communities

A third way to stay updated on the latest commercial design trends is to join online communities that connect you with other industrial designers who share your passion, challenges, and goals. You can find online communities on various platforms, such as forums, groups, chats, and networks, where you can exchange feedback, insights, tips, and resources. Some examples are the IDSA Community, the Industrial Design subreddit, the Industrial Designers Network on LinkedIn, and the Industrial Design Slack Channel.

4 Experiment with new tools and techniques

A fourth way to stay updated on the latest commercial design trends is to experiment with new tools and techniques that can enhance your design skills, creativity, and productivity. You can explore new software, hardware, materials, methods, and processes that can help you create better products and solutions. You can also learn new skills and knowledge that can expand your design capabilities and perspectives. Some examples are 3D modeling and printing, virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, biomimicry, and circular design.

5 Observe and analyze the market and users

A fifth way to stay updated on the latest commercial design trends is to observe and analyze the market and users that you are designing for. You can conduct research, surveys, interviews, tests, and observations to understand the needs, problems, preferences, and behaviors of your potential customers and users. You can also monitor the trends, changes, and opportunities in the market and industry that you are operating in. You can use tools like trend reports, market analysis, user personas, journey maps, and scenarios to inform and inspire your design decisions.

6 Seek feedback and collaboration

A sixth way to stay updated on the latest commercial design trends is to seek feedback and collaboration from other people who can offer different perspectives, opinions, and expertise. You can ask for feedback from your clients, colleagues, mentors, friends, or family members who can help you improve your design quality, relevance, and appeal. You can also collaborate with other designers, professionals, or organizations who can complement your skills, challenge your assumptions, and broaden your horizons. You can use tools like online portfolios, reviews, ratings, comments, and co-creation platforms to facilitate feedback and collaboration.

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?