Design Philosophy

[Talal]

During one of the evening courses, a question was asked of the participants about their design philosphies. This is an MBA level course and most people in the course are folks who are already working. For example I am an engineer and I took the question as what is my philosophy when desining things but it can be applied to any profession.

I found that I had never really thought even after being in the field for four years now. So i pose the same question to the professionals here what is your philosphy regarding your professions or whatever it is that you do.

Please be specific and try to convey your ideas in a very exact manner.

[DaZahroJaam.]

i don't know about an MBA level of a design philosophy but in general what i would do is to make sure that what i am creating has my signature approach to it and that it can also be personalized by whoever my perspective audience or targets are.
it should be fun and easy to navigate but at the same time, not overly simple or overwhelming. it's important to remember that you want to create something for someone else but at the same time, know that this piece will have your name behind it so if you don't feel proud of it, don't put it out in the market regardless of how well it's received.
last but not least, as a designer, work along with your clients, don't work for them.

[Talal]

Interesting points DZJ, there were a few participants from asian cultures and apparently all of them said something about leaving a name behind that is reflected in your creation. One indian guy said it should earn you respect an iranian said you want to leave behind something people will remember you by. I dont think that should be a concern a person can work all their life on something sitting in a cubicle not ever getting any recognition for it but ultimately if the thing they designed was good then that is what should matter.

So far what I have seen in the industry we almost exclusively work for the client or rather where the money is.