THE OPINION

OPINion

Our voice is one of the most powerful tools we have as human beings.

Communication is what allows us to break down barriers, make connections, and see from a new perspective. Speaking is not the only form of communication, however. Useful, honest, and innovative design can convey complex ideas in a simplified way.

Designers can use their artistic abilities and creative mindset to envision and create ideas that push for positive social change.

Unfortunately, very few recognize or take advantage of opportunities due to the unforgiving work environment they may be trapped in. Their lack of support plays a role in upholding hatred and injustice. If more designers applied their skills, time, and energy to underrepresented communities and small businesses they could help build more inclusive and aware communities while simultaneously developing their own happiness and perspective. Work is something most people don’t enjoy. I seldom meet people who are truly excited to wake up and work from nine to five, Monday through Friday. It’s a vicious cycle that leaves us feeling defeated and unmotivated, but it’s something we have to do. Maybe the reasoning behind this cycle isn’t based on the amount of time we spend working but rather the job we are actually doing and the purpose behind it.

Does it fill our needs and wants? Is it benefitting more than ourselves and the company? Are we using our skills to promote good in our surroundings? These are just a few questions we can ask ourselves when evaluating our jobs. Maybe if more people applied their skills towards the benefit of those who need them they would feel more motivated to work and truly put forward their best effort in doing so.

As I mentioned before, designers have the ability to communicate diverse ideas in a variety of creative and artistic ways. I believe this is one of the most valuable skills a designer has because it opens the door to communicate complicated ideas most people don’t like to talk about.

Among these obstacles are climate change, poverty, racial inequality, and so much more. There are a plethora of opportunities to design for good but a lack of interest to do so. However, I am convinced that if designers took on these problems they would grow to be more passionate and motivated in their work. Designing for good can be seen on a variety of platforms, ranging from large to small.

On a large scale, design for good can be identified in nation-wide movements. Black Lives Matter is a prime example of using design as a method to advocate for an under-represented population. The movement gains much of its power from not only those leading it but also through its strong brand reputation.

Design Action Collective is the worker-owned cooperative that produced their pervasive logo and overall aesthetic. Through design the movement is able to convey strength, assertiveness, and unification. One of the most important pieces the designers considered when developing the logo was the ability to reproduce it in an affordable and time sensitive manner, giving meaning behind the simple structure and look of the logo. Aside from the leaders and supporters of this movement, the impressive and meaningful design behind it also upholds its credibility. Although the design team helped in establishing an iconic logo for an iconic movement, the real reward was gaining new perspective on a prevalent and pressing issue and gaining the ability to share their insights with others.

I. Black Lives Matter sticker found on a subway sign in Manhattann, NY Photographed by Danny G.

INCLUSIVITY

Designing for good can be equally beneficial on a smaller scale. One of my favorite clothing companies, Outdoor Voices, is a small recreational outerwear company whose mission is “to get the world moving” by promoting exercise through a variety of forms. From my perspective, a large reason for their success comes from their design strategy. Their branding is simple, playful, and easily understandable. Furthermore, they design clothes that are ethically and sustainably sourced and made for all people, regardless of size and abilities.

Outdoor Voices is a brand people are drawn to and feel safe with which explains why people keep coming back to it. This may not be the case if it weren’t for designers who are deeply passionate about what the company stands for. In working for a company like Outdoor Voices designers can contribute their skills to promoting a more sustainable, ethical, and diverse world.

As a student I look for ways I can design for a cause that will broaden my horizons. Giving back to the community has always been a passion of mine which initially sparked my interest in “designing for good” and the meaning behind it. I recently started working for a freelance designer who mainly works with nonprofits, her biggest client being the American Kidney Fund. In working with her I’ve come to learn a lot about a community I previously had no knowledge on. I feel much more compelled to put in my best effort knowing my designs will benefit people who need it.

I thrive off of this feeling and wish more people could experience it. Through my work I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the importance of design as a tool in communicating with people different from myself. I’ve come to realize how valuable my skills as a designer are and how I can use them to promote postive social change (on a small scale for now).

Now imagine how different the world would be if designers stepped up to the plate and started using their power for good. Our society would be unrecognizable. I firmly believe designers have what it takes to knock down the barriers surrounding positive social change, but they must be willing to do so. Pairing with empowering movements and businesses are just a few ways in which designers can contribute good to the world around them. We have a special gift of easily communicating with the rest of the world, now it’s time we use it.

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