Design is Influential. Beyond Skill and Tool; an Art That Shapes Our World

From the handle of a cup, the structure of great buildings, and to the sleek curve of a smartphone, design shapes how we interact with products, places and even people. It begins from the environment in which we exist, to the specific problems we may face. Consider the smartphone, a device that has become ubiquitous while revolutionising our communication and connectivity. This is thanks to not only the technological capabilities of the device, but also the thoughtful design which prioritises user experience above all else. This is why the intuitiveness, accessibility and user experience of every smartphone plays a major role in suggesting the value.?

Design shapes our experiences in ways that are both subtle and profound.

Design exists between functionality and creativity. It is the point where innovation meets creativity, thereby bringing forth many of the usable products we enjoy today. Contrary to popular opinion, Design isn’t meant just for problem solving, neither is it just a skill or a tool. It is an art form that plays a deeper role in embedding certain ideas in our heads by permeating every aspect of our daily lives, influencing how we interact with technology, architecture, products, and even services.

In the world of Architecture & Urban Design, the experience of the spaces we live in are greatly influenced by their design. The design of these spaces influences how we interact with them and how we feel within the space.

A space can be designed to improve our overall quality of life; By putting the end users first and considering factors like colours, spacing, ambiance, as well as their interaction with objects within the spaces, one can successfully evoke a sense of calm, inspire creativity and even foster social interaction.?

Similarly, everyday objects like our furniture, appliances, vehicles and other gadgets exist as a functional work of art. These products have seamlessly become a part of our everyday routine. They are both functional, aesthetically pleasing and support user convenience. As a result, we not only have a series of products that serve practical purposes, but also enhance our daily experience.?

Moreover, Design extends beyond these products and places. As a tool, design has been used to successfully pass messages that evoke emotion and sometimes a reaction in people. In business, marketing designs are consistently used to solve a problem called asymmetric Information; where sellers know everything about what they are selling and buyers know little to nothing about it.?

Design can be a lot of things but what matters the most is whom you are designing for; your end-users.

Designs can also serve as Placebos too. The stripes on many toothpastes don’t serve any logical purpose. But they look cool and suggest to us that the toothpaste does more than one thing in a visual way like fighting cavities and freshening breath. So many sporty looking cars like the Honda Civic Type R are also manufactured with fake vents. These sweet looking exhaust pipes play a large part in highlighting a car’s character like the fake vent helps the Honda Civic look a bit more aggressive.?

Design extends to encompass digital experiences as well. Websites, mobile apps, and software interfaces rely on intuitive design principles to ensure ease of use and engagement. The competition between businesses in the digital space has shifted from functionality to user experience making design extra important to the success of your websites, mobile apps or software. Users now look forward to a seamless interaction when browsing the internet, shopping online, navigating social media or even sending money. By designing an experience that streamline tasks and enhances their overall digital experience, users can be guaranteed a frictionless experience.?

At its core, design is all about solving problems, innovation, and addressing the needs and desires of users in creative and effective ways. A blend of technical expertise, artistic flair and empathy towards the end user is what makes a Designer. Designers must learn to anticipate user needs, recognise & create trends, and push the boundaries of what exists to what is possible - to create the most impactful and memorable experience.?

In conclusion, design is influential. It is a force that shapes our world in ways both seen and unseen, conscious and unconscious. Design influences our daily lives in ways that are both profound and subtle. Recognising the importance of design and investing in a thoughtful, user-centric approach, we can create a brighter, more beautiful future for our businesses, ourselves and everyone around us.