So, what exactly is design?
What distinguishes design from research? What differentiates design from strategy? What differentiates design from business development? There are numerous professional sector overlaps, and design practice may be found in many parts of work and life, not simply the “field” of the design itself.
Many designers struggle to define design, and we frequently hear that it is both a process, a perspective, and an output. So, if design may be anything, what is it exactly? After over four years as a professional designer, I’ve discovered a formula that helps me define what design is and still iterating over the same base that builds the foundation.
Design = logic + providing shape. Not one or the other. But a combination of both. Allow me to clarify.
- Logics
The first step towards creating meaningful design is to understand the problem we aim to address. This involves asking the question, 'Why are things the way they are?' We can learn from humans, businesses, and history. Before considering potential solutions, it's important to identify the underlying reasons for the issue at hand. - Providing shape
The second part of the design equation involves creating new and improved options, not just solving problems. The goal of design is to answer the question, "How can we make it better?" and this requires tangible solutions. The "how" refers to the process of turning theory into something concrete.
One may refer to providing logic as research. Providing shapes is sometimes referred to as visual art. However, it only becomes a design when the two are combined.
There is design everywhere.
The question "What makes design different?" may seem like an attempt to give a higher status to design and defend it as a profession. However, if we look at the formula, we can see that design happens in both our daily lives and in all professional domains. Design is indeed a broad concept that extends far beyond its conventional association with aesthetics and visual appeal.
Syntax Designers makes sense of user needs and technical constraints, then gives form to these insights by defining syntax rules and creating a formal grammar for the language. Architects design by understanding the needs and preferences of clients (logic) and translating them into detailed blueprints and construction plans (providing shape). Product managers design by conducting market research and competitor analysis (logic) to develop product roadmaps and feature sets (providing shape). Medical Researchers design when they analyze clinical trial data and patient outcomes (logic) to develop new treatments and medical interventions (providing shape). Musicians and Composers design by exploring musical motifs and themes (logic) to compose symphonies, songs, and soundtracks (providing shape). UX/UI Designers design by conducting user research and usability testing (logic) to craft intuitive digital interfaces and interactive experiences (providing shape).
The list is endless…
The act of designing has always been a universal way for people to give shape and meaning to their surroundings, creating beauty in the process.
