Isharya’s Post

Lately, I've been reflecting on the increasing trend of people calling themselves designers. As a designer myself, this raises a question for me: Has the line between creativity and professional design become too blurred? Yes, design tools and processes are more accessible than ever, which has empowered people to engage with design in exciting ways. I think that’s a great thing — encouraging creativity and new ways of thinking is incredibly important. But what I’ve noticed is that with this accessibility comes a challenge: the title of "designer" seems to be used more loosely, often without the depth of understanding that the profession demands. From my perspective, being a designer involves much more than the ability to create something visually appealing. It requires a strategic approach, grounded in knowledge of materials, ergonomics, manufacturing processes, user psychology, experience and a host of other factors. It’s about solving real-world problems with carefully crafted solutions — solutions that not only look good but actually work in practice. What I find concerning is that in many ways the profession is being undermined by the idea that design is simply a matter of aesthetics. It’s far more complex than that. While I fully support the idea that everyone can and should engage with design thinking and its process, I believe the title of "designer" should reflect a level of expertise, knowledge and experience that goes beyond participation. I think it’s important to maintain a distinction between engaging with design as part of a process and being a professional designer who has mastered the intricacies of the craft. After all, calling oneself a designer implies a certain level of responsibility and commitment to delivering thoughtful, functional solutions that has a positive impact. So, here’s the question that I came across while reading an article on medium and I’ve been pondering: How do we as a profession maintain the integrity of what it means to be a "designer" in a world where creativity is becoming increasingly democratized? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how we strike that balance between inclusivity and professionalism in design. I might also be wrong here but I think hearing different perspectives from you all can help me understand this better or from a different view perhaps!

Logo Brainstorming Design Concept for a Tech Company 1. Design Inspiration: - The logo features a combination of geometric shapes and vibrant colors, conveying a sense of innovation, creativity, and modernity. - The use of circular and elongated shapes represents balance, harmony, and connectivity, which are essential values in the tech industry. 2. Color Palette: - Blue: Symbolizes trust, reliability, and professionalism. It is often associated with technology and innovation. - Orange:Represents enthusiasm, creativity, and energy, reflecting the company's dynamic and forward-thinking nature. - Green:Denotes growth, freshness, and sustainability, highlighting the company's commitment to continuous development and eco-friendliness. - Pink: Adds a playful and energetic touch, indicating the company's vibrant and approachable personality. 3. Shape and Form: - The logo's central structure is composed of both circular and elongated shapes, arranged in a vertical, symmetrical manner. This design evokes a sense of stability and order while remaining visually engaging. - The alignment of shapes from top to bottom suggests a streamlined flow of ideas and processes, emphasizing efficiency and clarity in the company's operations. 4. Style and Aesthetic: - The design is minimalist yet impactful, ensuring it is easily recognizable and versatile across different mediums and platforms. - The playful combination of colors and shapes creates a youthful and energetic vibe, appealing to a broad audience including both tech enthusiasts and general consumers. 5. Brand Values: - **Innovation:** The modern design elements reflect the company's commitment to cutting-edge technology and continuous improvement. - Creativity:The vibrant color scheme and dynamic shapes showcase the company's creative approach to problem-solving and product development. - Approachability:The use of friendly, bright colors ensures that the brand appears welcoming and customer-centric.

💖💖💖Why designers love Post-its💖💖💖 In the design world, post-it notes are often the subject of jokes, with sceptics saying, "We just spent an hour in a room moving coloured paper around on the wall." However, there's more to these colourful pieces of paper than meets the eye. Note: This is a summary of a longer article. Full article link in description 1. They Encourage Quantity Over Depth Post-its are perfect for the "going wide" phase of design, where exploring all options is key. People naturally fill the space they are given, and post-its limit that space, promoting brevity and clarity. This allows you to get more ideas out rather than getting stuck in the weeds on one. 2. They Help You Say It Simply Post-its encourage clarity and succinctness, with no room for jargon and complexity. The small space forces participants to focus on the core of their ideas, making communication more effective and straightforward. 3. They Encourage Finding Connections and Patterns Post-its are great for making patterns and connections quickly and visually. This visual and tactile method of organising thoughts helps in identifying relationships and clusters among ideas that might be missed in linear note-taking. 4. They Create Shared Ownership In group settings, post-its reduce ego attachment to ideas. By merging and building upon each other's ideas, teams create a collective ownership that encourages open critique and improvement. This shared approach fosters collaboration and diminishes individual defensiveness. 5. They Are Easy to Throw Away Post-its are low-cost and quick to produce, making it easier to discard or modify ideas without emotional attachment. This encourages a mindset of iteration and improvement, where ideas can be refined or replaced without significant loss. 6. They Break Things Into Smaller Pieces Post-its help break down complex problems and solutions into manageable, actionable parts. By isolating different components, it becomes easier to address specific issues and work incrementally towards a comprehensive solution. 7. They Are Colourful and Fun This is not a trivial point. Part of running a workshop is creating a space where people are encouraged to think differently. We want to move people from the closed and problem-focused mindset that is dominant in society to an open, curious, and even playful space. 8. They Encourage Collaboration and Connection The act of moving post-its around a wall is a tactile, collaborative process that builds trust and connection among team members. This hands-on approach promotes active participation and collective problem-solving, enhancing team cohesion and connection.

Time-Traveling Through Design Hey there, my fellow creative nerds! Today, we're hopping into our metaphorical DeLorean (MARTY!) to explore a trend that's as intriguing as it is paradoxical – retro-futurism in design. Fasten your seatbelts and let’s push this to 88 mph; we're about to merge the charm of yesteryears with the wonders of tomorrow! The Blast from the Past Born in '77, I'm a bit biased, but ‘retro’ rocks: so let's start here. Retro design elements – think neon lights, pixel art, or those groovy patterns from the '70s – evoke a sense of nostalgia. They're like comfort food for our eyes, reminding us of the good ol' days. Remember playing Pac-Man on a chunky arcade machine (give me a $1 worth of quarters, and I was in heaven) or watching sci-fi movies with those outdated yet memorable special effects? That's the kind of warm, fuzzy feeling retro design can bring to your brand. In fact, I had a student in my most recent branding class turn in a vinyl jacket project that was fashioned after an 80s-inspired yearbook. It was rad! Shifting into the Future Now, let's shift gears to futuristic design. Think sleek lines, holographic textures, and cutting-edge technology and beyond. It's all about pushing the boundaries and imagining what could be. It’s not robots, flying cars, or voice-activated everything anymore, because that’s practically today’s world. Futuristic design elements should push the limits of the principles of design to make your brand look forward-thinking, innovative, and ready to take on the world of tomorrow. When Past Meets Future So, what happens when you mix these two seemingly opposite worlds? You get a branding powerhouse! A great example is the movie Ready Player One. Retro-futurism is like a visual cocktail (on the rocks please) that combines the comfort of the past with the excitement of the future. It's a creative way to stand out and appeal to a broad audience. Imagine a brand that uses pixel art (retro) to depict a post-apocalyptic cityscape (futuristic) – it's quirky, memorable, and tells a unique story. An Imaginary Brand Let's take a hypothetical brand, "PixelPulse," for example. They're a tech company that wants to convey their cutting-edge products with a touch of nostalgia. By using retro gaming graphics (think 8-bit style) in combination with futuristic imagery (like holographic interfaces), they create a distinctive and engaging brand identity that resonates with both young tech enthusiasts and nostalgic gamers. Investors… DM me. Crafting Your Retro-Futuristic Vision Now, I want to hear from you! How would you incorporate retro-futuristic elements into your brand? Would you go for neon lights with a holographic photography, or maybe throw in some vintage typography with a techy feel? Share your ideas, and let's create some time-bending branding magic! Until next time, keep blending those timelines and pushing the boundaries of design! “Great Scott!” For more, schedule a free consultation.

OSM GROUP has had an in-house design team since 2016, assisting not only customers with designing their products but also conducting research and brand analysis. Kelly Man has worked for OSM Group at our headquarters in Hong Kong as a Senior Designer since 2016, and her responsibility is to design ID & CMF concepts for both in-house and customers' brand products. Together with her teammates, her goal is to create value that aligns with the organization’s factors. ❔️How does the design process at OSM Group reflect the company's commitment to originality and innovation? 🔹️At OSM GROUP, we place great importance on design research, trend studies, and brand analysis. These steps are crucial in our design process as they help us stay true to our commitment to originality and innovation. We rely on the insights we gather from these activities to infuse our work with fresh and exciting ideas. ❔️ Can you share an example of a project where collaboration with the customer was essential to achieving success? 🔹️Absolutely! Our design team actually developed an Eco-Sustainable platform a few years back. Additionally, we continuously work on designing and exploring various versions of sustainable products for renovation purposes. We firmly believe that customers are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions and concepts. That's why we're dedicated to driving our products towards achieving their goals. ❔️ What aspect of your job brings you the most satisfaction? 🔹️I find the most job satisfaction when my ideas receive positive feedback and contribute to the company's achievements. Let me give you an example: our in-house brand, System G fishing gear collection, has been honored with the prestigious International IF Design Award. ❔️What are some common challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them? 🔹️One common challenge that designers often face is the need to modify design ideas to meet technical requirements. This may involve changing the ID of the products. To tackle this, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and engage in discussions with the entire design team, design, and R&D director to explore potential solutions. As a designer, it is essential to identify and overcome these challenges to ensure the creation of high-quality work and achieve success. ❔️ Why do you like working here? 🔹️We are fortunate to have a strong design team that allows us to create a wide range of products. The culture here encourages us to constantly explore innovative ideas, which is crucial for effective collaboration and teamwork with our colleagues. It's truly an inspiring environment to be a part of. #OSMGroup #WeAreEngineersAtHeart #TellingTheOsmStory #design #consumerelectronics #EngineeredSoftGoods

Finding Design Inspiration in Unexpected Places: Why Wile E. Coyote is One of My Design Heroes In the world of design, we often look up to legendary figures like Dyson, Loewy, Ive, or Rams for inspiration. Their contributions have undoubtedly shaped the way we approach design today. However, when asked about one of my design heroes, I often receive surprised reactions, especially from fellow designers. Instead of naming a conventional figure, I proudly declare that Wile E. Coyote is one of my greatest inspirations. Allow me to explain why. 1. Innovative Thinking: Wile E. Coyote's relentless pursuit of catching the Road Runner demonstrates his innovative mindset. Despite facing countless failures, he continuously thinks outside the box, devising new schemes and inventions in his quest to achieve his goal. This willingness to push boundaries and explore unconventional solutions is a trait every designer should embrace. 2. Resourcefulness: Wile E. Coyote exemplifies the concept of making do with what you have. Whether it's using ACME products or cobbling together makeshift contraptions from household items, he demonstrates remarkable resourcefulness. This ability to work with limited resources teaches us to be adaptable and creative in our approach to problem-solving, even when faced with constraints. 3. Persistence: Perhaps Wile E. Coyote's most admirable quality is his unwavering persistence. Despite the countless setbacks and mishaps he encounters, he never gives up on his pursuit. His determination serves as a reminder that success often requires perseverance in the face of adversity. As designers, we must learn to embrace failure as part of the creative process and remain steadfast in our efforts to overcome challenges. 4. Adaptability: While Wile E. Coyote's primary goal may be catching the elusive Road Runner, he demonstrates a remarkable adaptability when his plans inevitably go awry. He quickly adjusts his approach, learns from his mistakes, and iterates upon his designs in pursuit of success. This agility is crucial in the ever-evolving field of design, where flexibility and adaptability are key to staying relevant and innovative. In conclusion, while Wile E. Coyote may seem like an unconventional choice for a design hero, his qualities of innovation, resourcefulness, persistence, and adaptability are invaluable traits that every designer can learn from. By embracing his spirit of relentless pursuit and creative problem-solving, we can unlock new realms of possibility in our own design journeys. So, the next time you find yourself facing a daunting design challenge, remember the lessons of Wile E. Coyote and dare to think outside the box. #design #hero's

We have the tools to design. But the greatest tool of all is your creativity. It starts from what inspires you. 🎨💡 The world of design is a rich tapestry woven from ideas, inspirations, and tools that serve to manifest our thoughts into tangible outcomes. We often focus on the tools available to us—software, sketchpads, or 3D modeling programs—believing that they are the keys to unlocking our potential as designers. However, it is imperative to recognize that the most significant tool at our disposal is not a physical object or a piece of technology, but rather our creativity. Creativity is the catalyst that transforms mere concepts into breathtaking designs, and it is inherently tied to what inspires us. When we talk about design, we often picture meticulously arranged elements, symmetries, color palettes, and layouts that please the eye. While it is undeniable that proficiency with technical tools influences a designer’s ability to execute their vision, it is creativity that ignites the spark and propels ideas into innovative realms. Our creative minds allow us to see beyond the mundane, to ask “what if,” and to explore possibilities that others may not consider. Inspiration can come from various sources, and what inspires one person is not necessarily the same for another. Nature, for example, has always been a wellspring of creativity. The intricate patterns of a butterfly's wings or the structure of a tree can inspire architects, graphic designers, and product developers alike. Similarly, cultural experiences—be it travel, art, music, or literature—can evoke emotions and ideas that shape a designer’s work. The way a piece of music makes someone feel might influence the rhythm of a visual composition they create. Moreover, personal experiences, stories, and even challenges we face can be profound sources of inspiration. Designers often draw from their life stories, using their emotions and experiences to inform their creations. This is where authenticity comes into play; the most impactful designs often carry the mark of the designer’s personal journey. It’s in the intersection of inspiration and creativity that true innovation occurs, allowing for designs that resonate on a deeper level with audiences. Design is not merely about aesthetics; it is about communication and problem-solving. The ability to creatively interpret a problem or a need allows designers to think differently about how to approach their work. For instance, a designer tasked with creating a sustainable product might find inspiration in biomimicry, employing nature’s strategies to solve human problems. Here, creativity fuels innovation, leading to solutions that not only meet functional requirements but also embody an ethos of responsibility towards the environment. #creativity #design #inspiration

Navigating the Design Slump:A Reflection on the Post-Project Blues Completing a design project can be an exhilarating experience, but what happens when that initial surge of excitement fades away? Many designers find themselves in a design slump after wrapping up a challenging project. In this article, we'll explore the common struggles faced by product designers in the aftermath of a project and provide strategies to overcome this period of creative stagnation. 1. The Emotional Rollercoaster: Every project has its highs and lows, but the intense focus and dedication required during its execution can take a toll on your emotional well-being. The post-project period can leave designers feeling empty, lost, or even questioning their abilities. Remember that this is a common experience and an opportunity for growth. 2. Reflect and Recharge: Allow yourself time to reflect upon the completed project. Acknowledge your achievements, learn from any mistakes, and identify areas for improvement. This introspective phase can help you regain perspective and reframe your mindset. 3. Seek Inspiration: Finding inspiration is crucial during a design slump. Surround yourself with inspiring content, such as design books, industry blogs, or curated design communities like Behance. Engaging with other designers' work can reignite your creative spark and serve as a reminder that design is an ever-evolving discipline. 4. Collaborative Opportunities: Consider collaborating with other designers or professionals from different fields for a fresh perspective. Seek feedback on your work or engage in a design critique session. This can help you break free from your creative rut and foster new ideas. 5. Skill Development: Use the post-project period to focus on enhancing your skills. Invest time in learning new tools or techniques, attending workshops, or taking online courses. Expanding your skillset not only boosts confidence but also keeps you inspired and ready for future challenges. 6. Take Breaks: Burnout is a real risk in the design industry, especially after the intense effort put into completing a project. Don't be afraid to take a well-deserved break. Engage in activities outside of design, immerse yourself in nature, or pursue a hobby. Taking time away from your work can help reset your mind and recharge your creativity 7. Embrace Failure: Design slumps can also stem from fear of failing to live up to your past successes. Embrace failures as inevitable learning experiences that contribute to your growth. Emphasize the importance of experimentation and iteration, as even the most successful designers face setbacks. Experiencing a design slump after a project is more common than you may think. Remember that it's a temporary phase and an opportunity for personal and professional growth. By reflecting, seeking inspiration, collaborating, continuing to develop your skills, taking breaks, and embracing failure, you'll emerge stronger and more creative than ever.

I see myself as a design misfit. But I also don’t see this as a problem. My identity as a designer - or "not-a-designer" - is something I’ve been talking about to a few people this week. I don’t identify with any design discipline any more. I’ve moved through Product & Furniture design, Service, UX and research. I've dabbled in some others along the way. I can wrangle a bit of basic code and hack a website together. I know my way around power tools and I can build a deck and lay a floor. I’m trained in all sorts of futures, design and research methods. You can find me loitering in a few futures-identifying design hangouts. I’m also an avid student of strategy and complexity. The last online course I did was Intelligence Analysis. Before that it was Philosophy of Technology. In moving to Aotearoa New Zealand I’ve questioned everything I’ve been taught about design. I’ve also been lucky to work alongside Māori clients and friends from whom I’ve learned a different way to see the world. On a personal level - this breadth means I don't often get asked to do traditional design jobs. If you were to hire me (vs hiring We Create Futures ) it would be for problem wrangling where there's no clear solution or path forward. You're a design or strategic leader. Maybe you're in a design-led organisation. You're looking for a designerly approach but need an extra dimension. And you want it delivering by someone that understands the industry and culture. So what does that mean for how I see myself? If there's a role I feel most affinity for TODAY it’s that of the bricoleur: “A person who constructs bricolages; one who creates using whatever materials are available.” The materials at hand are those I’ve collated over more than two-decades of learning. Combined with that of those I’m working with. And some other stuff lying around on the desktop and studio floor. (Maybe it's because I grew up watching A-Team and McGyver?) I often wonder how other designers see themselves. How their journey has shaped their role. How has your identity as a designer changed over time? Do you still see yourself as designing in the same way you were taught? Are you also bit of a design misfit? #design #designprocess #identity #designpractice

🌟 Current Trend in Front-End Design: The Rise of Dark Mode 🌙✨ As we move through 2024, one significant trend in front-end design is the growing popularity of dark mode. 🎨💻 Why is dark mode becoming a go-to choice? Here are a few key reasons: 1. User Preference: Many find dark mode easier on the eyes, especially in low light. 2. Battery Efficiency: For OLED screens, dark mode can improve battery life. 3. Aesthetic Appeal: Dark themes create a modern, sleek look. 4. Accessibility: Thoughtful design can enhance accessibility for users with visual impairments. Best Practices for Implementing Dark Mode: 1. Contrast is Key: Ensure readability with sufficient contrast. 2. Consistent Color Palette: Maintain brand consistency in both modes. 3. Avoid Pure Black: Use dark grays to reduce eye strain. 4. Highlight Elements: Use brighter colors for buttons to stand out. 5.Test Across Devices: Ensure a consistent experience on all devices. Implementation Examples: •Vue: <template> <div :class="{ 'dark-mode': isDarkMode }"> <button @click="toggleDarkMode">Toggle Dark Mode</button> </div> </template> <script> export default { data() { return { isDarkMode: false }; }, methods: { toggleDarkMode() { this.isDarkMode = !this.isDarkMode; localStorage.setItem('dark-mode', this.isDarkMode); }, }, mounted() { this.isDarkMode = JSON.parse(localStorage.getItem('dark-mode')) || false; }, }; </script> <style> .dark-mode { background-color: #121212; color: #ffffff; } </style> •React: import React, { useState, useEffect } from 'react'; function App() { const [isDarkMode, setIsDarkMode] = useState(() => JSON.parse(localStorage.getItem('dark-mode')) || false); useEffect(() => { localStorage.setItem('dark-mode', isDarkMode); }, [isDarkMode]); return ( <div className={isDarkMode ? 'dark-mode' : ''}> <button onClick={() => setIsDarkMode(!isDarkMode)}>Toggle Dark Mode</button> </div> ); } export default App; •Angular: import { Component } from '@angular/core'; @Component({ selector: 'app-root', template: ` <div [ngClass]="{'dark-mode': isDarkMode}"> <button (click)="toggleDarkMode()">Toggle Dark Mode</button> </div> `, styles: [` .dark-mode { background-color: #121212; color: #ffffff; } `] }) export class AppComponent { isDarkMode = false; toggleDarkMode() { this.isDarkMode = !this.isDarkMode; localStorage.setItem('dark-mode', JSON.stringify(this.isDarkMode)); } ngOnInit() { this.isDarkMode = JSON.parse(localStorage.getItem('dark-mode')) || false; } } Embracing dark mode can enhance user experience and engagement. Have you implemented it in your projects? Any other popular trends you're using? 💬👇 #FrontEndDesign #DarkMode #UXDesign #WebDevelopment #Trends2024