Design Codes of Conduct

It is important to maintain an understanding of the various Codes of Conduct that are to be maintained in the design industry. These are summarised under 3 categories: Professional Performance, Professional Conduct, and Responsibility to Society. These three topics under the design codes of conduct discuss a range of values, ethos, mandates, and overall expectations that differ from concepts such as ones behaviour, treatment of others and presentation of self, to concepts surrounding inclusivity, safety, and the maintenance of awareness regarding advancements in areas such as: culture, technology, the environment, politics etc.

For me personally, work I complete in the graphic design sector of the industry (whether as a freelancer or with a company) should align significantly with the codes within the ‘Responsibility to Society’ category. This ensures that all my work is done with an understanding of the implications it has on the environmental and technological advancements of the time and place. As well as this, ensuring my work also prioritises inclusivity, diversity, and correctly sourced material.

When referring to the codes of conduct within the design industry, it is essential one knows and understands them as they act as a regulator of every idea, concept, ideation, action etc. that a creative has and/or enacts. They are there to guide us through our creative processes and to help us to make decisions that will benefit all persons involved and/or affected by our design work. Thanks to these codes of conduct, we can ensure this industry continues to progress into a more sustainable, inclusive, and moral one.

International Council of Design. (2020). Professional Code of conduct for Designers. In International Council of Design (pp. 6–10). ICoD Secretariat. https://www.theicod.org/storage/app/media/ resources/ICO_Professional_Code_of_Conduct.pdf