Jodi Forlizzi, a leader in Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon, discusses the evolving landscape of design amid AI advancements. She explores how designers must adapt to new technologies, highlighting the necessity of creativity and ethical considerations in their work. The conversation delves into the importance of holistic systems in areas like elder care and hospitality, emphasizing the need for educational reforms in design to prepare future talent. Forlizzi also shares insights on collaboration and her upcoming book 'Unremarkable AI,' focusing on design education.
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Quick takeaways
Designers need to shift their focus towards the unique capabilities of AI as a medium for innovation rather than just traditional methods.
The evolution of design education must incorporate systemic thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration to effectively address technology's societal impacts.
Deep dives
The Evolving Role of Design in a Tech-Driven World
Design is increasingly adapting to the challenges posed by disruptive technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. Traditional design disciplines are often inadequate to meet the demands of new user interfaces that require interaction design. The emergence of AI necessitates that designers reframe their approach, focusing less on established methods and more on the unique capabilities of AI as a medium for innovation. This shift encourages designers to explore AI not just as a tool but as a fundamental element that can shape the design process itself.
AI as a Design Material
Rather than viewing AI solely as a set of tools for designers, it is essential to consider it a design material that can be manipulated and shaped. This perspective emphasizes the need for designers to understand the capabilities of AI, alongside how it interacts with data. Historical examples, such as Microsoft’s failed chatbot, highlight the crucial role designers play in guiding the development of AI technologies. By adopting this understanding, designers can create more responsible and effective AI products that meet user needs while avoiding pitfalls associated with technology misuse.
Reframing the Design Process with AI
In the face of AI advancements, designers are encouraged to start their processes differently, often beginning with technical capabilities rather than user needs. This approach leverages the potential of AI to inspire innovative solutions that may otherwise be overlooked. By focusing on the capabilities of AI, designers can uncover low-hanging fruit opportunities that are both simple and viable for implementation. This method enables designers to better align their work with the evolving landscape of technology and user expectations in a rapidly changing environment.
Systemic Thinking in Design Education
Designers must engage in higher-order thinking, preparing for roles that involve systemic analysis of technology’s impact on users and industries. Design education must adapt to include systemic frameworks that foster an understanding of the complexities of technology within societal contexts. Programs should emphasize the importance of collaboration across disciplines to address larger societal issues brought forth by technological change. This holistic preparation is critical for designers to thrive in roles that encompass innovation and ethical considerations in a technology-driven world.
Jodi Forlizzi is the Herbert A. Simon Professor of Human-Computer Interaction at the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University. Dr. Forlizzi has a distinguished career as a service designer, researcher, design leader, and academic. In this conversation, we discuss the changing role of design in the face of disruptive new technologies such as AI.