#thinkplace

13.10.15

What is the role of design in creating change for social good?

Design is really important in creating change for social good because the way that designers think and come to a solution is crucial in improving lifestyles and providing opportunities that were not previously thought of. The majority of the time, design is concerned with people, and therefore should be taken seriously when it comes to creating change for social good.

What are the key elements of designing real change for humans?

One of the most important elements of designing for other people is to understand the person that you are designing for. Looking at not only what they want, but also what they need. To really understand the person you are designing for, you have to create a better connection with them and relate to them on a personal level. Working together with people that are non-designers also benefits the designer to understand different viewpoints and opinions.

Another important element is to think outside the box. Look at what has been done before to provide a solution to the problem and analyse what worked and what didn’t. Test out new solutions with people to make sure that your idea would be effective and make change.

I like that… Design isn’t just making things look good. Design is about understanding people and problems and coming up with solutions to these problems that will make life easier/better for others.

I wish that… Although this is becoming a lot better, I wish that design would be taken more seriously, and things such as budgets and the opinions of a few wouldn’t get in the way of design that would benefit many.