What is design?

Defining a topic as broad as design is not easy. Thus, the 15-week exploration of all things design in this blog. I find most explanations of design are either too vague to be meaningful or are too generalized to cover everything that it encompasses. I chose to study graphic design when I began to realize the effects that design, advertising and the media have on people and cultures internationally. It is an industry with so much potential for success, power and change, as communication technology continues to be an integral part of Western civilization. Design often reflects the social, political and economical norms or issues of the time and impacts our lives on a greater scale than most realize. It surrounds us, influences us, persuades us, informs us, reminds us and asks us to ask important questions.

Because design is a practice rather than an art, good design requires a creative, yet critical mind. Similar to design, creativity is not a miracle. It is fostered, nurtured, and developed from a foundation of ideas, inspiration and previous experiences. A designer's imagination is a vital part of the design process, as concepts that work and satisfy a need must also be unique and compelling. Design is not about impulses or a designer's emotions; it is a problem-solving business. It is about understanding human nature, behaviour and desires both in a client and your target. It is fundamental, conceptual and should serve a purpose or communicate a message. The designer's role is to be objective and create a solution to a design problem that is the most effective and simple way of doing so.

As I try to completely wrap my head around the design industry over the next 15 weeks, I will hopefully be able to better answer the question, 'What is design?' in a way that is significant and specific to my personal journey and design style.