Design sense

You might hear people saying, “What a wonderful design!” But what are they actually referring to? Are they talking about appearance or functionality? Or is it that the product is well-designed?

The term ‘design’ is often thrown around casually. But it feels good that at least everyone is talking about it.

When people comment on design, they might be appreciating the visual appeal, but a truly exceptional design goes beyond looks. It seamlessly integrates form and function, solving problems and enhancing user experience. So, the next time you hear someone exclaim, “What a design!” take a moment to ponder whether they’re admiring the surface or recognizing the deeper brilliance of well-thought-out design.

I want to emphasize one of the famous quotes from Steve Jobs that can give you some clarity about design.

Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.

True design goes beyond the surface. Let’s try to understand how actually it works.

Referring to one of the definitions:? Design is the process of imagining and planning the creation of objects, systems, buildings, vehicles, etc.

In my view, design is a process that allows us to solve problems and build something better. Whether it’s a product, a service, or a system, good design aims to create value and solve real problems. It’s a discipline that combines creativity with practicality, and its impact can be seen in every aspect of our daily lives.

Moreover, design is interdisciplinary, drawing from fields such as psychology, engineering, and business. It requires a deep understanding of human behaviour, technological possibilities, and market dynamics. This complexity is what makes design so powerful and can transform ideas into tangible solutions that can improve lives and drive innovation.

A good design involves technology, business, and people. It allows you to see the intricate connections between these elements and how they influence one another. But does understanding the design process solve the problem? Not entirely.

We would also require the right mindset to solve the problem. I am referring to a quote from Brian Reed, which could guide us to do that:

Everything is designed. Few things are designed well.

It is easy to guess ideas. I wonder where the best solutions come from. They are located in the territory of “Few things are designed well.” We need to change our mindset from “Everything is designed” to “Few things are designed well.” This implies that we need to make concerted efforts to find better solutions, which often involve continuous learning and adaptation.

However, it requires validation before you can translate them into your final solution. This validation process often involves testing, feedback, and iteration. The best strategy is to try to fail fast enough to avoid last-minute tragedy. Failing fast means you can quickly identify what doesn’t work and make the necessary adjustments.

Anyone who thinks they can solve a problem should understand the design process before diving into the solution. This understanding will certainly help to build better outcomes (products and services) that can change the behaviour of the people.

Moreover, it encourages a more thoughtful and deliberate approach to problem-solving, ensuring that the solutions we create are not only functional but also meaningful and impactful. By embracing this mindset, we can strive to elevate our work from merely designed to well-designed.