Analysis of Readings
Throughout the course of this unit, many topics surrounding the industry of design and the many complexities of its functionality were covered. The class focused on the various nitty gritty aspects of working in the design world and how best to commence when beginning the journey into such. It is through researching these topics, that one develops a deeper understanding of them, and how they relate to the broader community.
One topic covered that was of particular interest followed that of Dieter Rams ’10 principals for good design’. Rams was a firm believer in the prioritisation of functionality and quality over aesthetics; and yet understood and respected the significance of both these aspects in a good design. He simply concluded that whilst aesthetics are an integral element, such should not overpower the legibility of the product. Rams states that a well-designed product remains innovative, not overly complicated, subtle and as minimal as possible without compromising the aesthetic value of such. This is as an unobtrusive nature allows for a product to complement its surroundings and for such to be unburdened “with non-essentials” (Shuffle Magazine, 2024). To summarise, Rams favours the concept of balance when designing a product. This conclusion comes from the understanding that a ‘good’ and effective design must incorporate various different essential elements without any overpowering the other; a ‘good’ design prioritises balance, and through such, it’s overall functionality.
This unit also took a deep dive into the how the design industry interacts with the Indigenous community of Australia. One aspect that stood out personally, was that of the ‘Australian Indigenous Design Charter’. This charter was created with the intent of “[facilitating] accurate and respectful representation of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in design and associated media” (Kennedy et al., 2017). This means, ensuring designers have the repsect, knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture prior to beginging a prpject with relation to such. The charter aids in assuring design and media projects do not engaging in any form of appropriation or misrepresentation; rather, they assist in the “appropriate creation and commercial use of indigenous graphical representations” (Kennedy et al., 2017), through providing the proper guidance. Overall, there are 8 key points within the charter which ensure a project is; Indigenous led, self-determined, community specific, engages in deep listening, considers the impact of the design, seeks Indigenous knowledge, is collaborative, co-creative and follows both the legalities and morals when commencing a project.
Another topic covered, addresses the importance of feedback and critisism in the design industry. The article ‘the art and science of giving and receiving critisicm at work’ discusses this idea through employing the notion that through “understanding the psychology of critisicm” one is able to provide “better feedback and better deal with negative reviews” (Seiter, 2014). To summarise, credibility, trust, positive intent, appropriate timing, interactivity, clarity, and general beneficiality, are all integral points to engage in when delivering feedback or criticism. Whilst receiving such on the other hand, involves mastering self-relfection and maintaining a growth mindset. The best way to ensure the positive receiving of feedback, is to actively seek such, and work through each constituent of advice, one step at a time.
Lastly, a stand out reading discussed the topic of branding; its importance and how to do such effectively. The work by Delonia Minor-Cooley and Rochelle Parks-Yancy highlights the importance of taking the time to develop a proper brand as how it is essential in obtaining work, showcasing abilities, and getting ones name out there in general. Whether it be through an online or offline means, utilizing the resources available to oneself and taking the time to develop a proper, professional brand identity, proves a significant and unnegotiable aspect of being a designer in our current day (Minor-Cooley & Parks-Yancy, 2020).
Kennedy, Dr. R., Kelly, Dr. M., Martin, B., & Greenaway, J. (2017, October 5). Australian Indigenous Design Charter. IDC. https://indigenousdesigncharter.com.au/australian-indigenous-design-charter/
Minor-Cooley, D., & Parks-Yancy, R. (2020). The Power of the Brand: Personal Branding and Its Effect on Job Seeking Attributes. Journal of Internet Commerce, 19(3), 241–261. https://doi.org/10.1080/15332861.2020.1777028
Seiter, C. (2014, December 9). The Art And Science Of Giving And Receiving Criticism At Work. Fast Company. https://www.fastcompany.com/3039412/the-art-science-to-giving-and-receiving-criticism-at-work
Shuffle Magazine. (2024). Dieter Rams: Ten Principles For Good Design. Dieter Rams: Ten Principles for Good Design; Shuffle Magazine. https://readymag.website/shuffle/dieter-rams/ten-commandments/
