Scott Berkun, author of "Why Design is Hard," dives into the intricate challenges designers face in a business context. He discusses 'gravity problems'—unsolvable issues that require savvy navigation through organizational hurdles. Berkun emphasizes the importance of curiosity as a superpower for building relationships and enhancing influence. He debunks the myth of the 'eureka moment,' highlighting the complex execution behind impactful designs. With AI's rise, he urges designers to advocate for their value and maintain a human-centered approach to innovation.
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insights INSIGHT
Designer Hubris
Designers often critique others' work without understanding the full context.
They assume ideal constraints and quick solutions, ignoring real-world complexities.
insights INSIGHT
Gravity Problems
"Gravity problems" in design are persistent, unsolvable issues.
Designers must learn to navigate them creatively rather than complaining.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Business Acumen
Understand the business context by being genuinely curious about colleagues' work and challenges.
Build trust and find common ground to become an ally, not just a designer.
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In this book, Bill Burnett and Dave Evans apply the principles of design thinking to help readers design and build a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling. The authors, who are also educators at Stanford University, emphasize the importance of prototyping, experimentation, and iteration in life design. They provide practical exercises and tools to help readers navigate life's challenges and create a future that aligns with their values and aspirations. The book is based on their highly successful course at Stanford and has been widely praised for its empowering and practical approach to life design.
How Design Makes the World
Scott Berkun
Scott Berkun's "How Design Makes the World" explores the pervasive influence of design in shaping our daily lives. It examines design principles across various domains, from everyday objects to complex systems. The book highlights the often-unseen role of design in creating user-friendly experiences and solving practical problems. Berkun emphasizes the importance of understanding design thinking to appreciate its impact on society. It's a valuable resource for anyone interested in the broader implications of design.
Feline Philosophy
Cats and the Meaning of Life
John Gray
In this episode of the AIGA Design Podcast, hosts Lee-Sean Huang and Giulia Donatello and guest Scott Berkun, author of Why Design is Hard, discuss the complexities of design, touching on themes such as the challenges designers face, the importance of understanding business contexts, and the role of curiosity as a superpower. We explore the concept of 'gravity problems' in design, emphasizing the need for designers to navigate organizational politics and influence effectively. The conversation also explores the myths surrounding design, the evolving identity of designers in the workplace, and the impact of AI on the future of design.
Takeaways
Designers often assume they know better without understanding the context.
Gravity problems are unsolvable issues that designers must learn to navigate.
Understanding the business context can enhance a designer's influence.
Curiosity is a vital skill for designers to build relationships.
Designers should focus on the value they bring beyond aesthetics.
The myth of the 'eureka moment' oversimplifies the design process.
Designers can influence decisions by visualizing problems and solutions.
Career paths should prioritize fulfilling work over job titles.
AI will change the design landscape, but human oversight remains essential.
Building trust and relationships is crucial for designers to succeed.
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