Designing a More Inclusive and Impactful Digital Industry: A Guide for New Designers

Designing a More Inclusive and Impactful Digital Industry: A Guide for New Designers

Introduction:

Our industry needs more designers, but not just any designers. We need a different type of designer – one who is committed to breaking down barriers, dismantling exclusionary systems, and creating a more diverse and inclusive digital landscape. Unfortunately, digital product design remains an elitist discipline, overshadowed by unnecessary jargon and lacking organizations that genuinely represent all professionals' best interests. In this article, we aim to provide actionable advice and resources for new designers to have a birds-eye view of digital design as a practice and reflect on their role within their companies, communities, and society at large.

1. Embracing Animation in Design:

Animation can be a powerful tool for enhancing user experience and adding life to your designs. Figma, a popular design tool, offers five ways to incorporate animation into your designs. By understanding the principles of animation, utilizing Figma's features, and exporting animations in suitable formats such as CSS for the web and JSON for mobile apps, designers can bring their designs to life and create more engaging experiences for users.

2. Breaking Down Barriers: Mentorship and Resources:

Experienced designers often struggle to find resources that are relevant and timeless, free from clickbaity content driven by for-profit companies. To address this, mentors can play a crucial role in helping new designers navigate the industry. By sharing their knowledge, experiences, and curated resources, mentors can empower new designers to overcome barriers and stay updated on industry trends without relying on temporary solutions. Establishing mentorship programs and platforms can bridge the knowledge gap and foster a supportive design community.

3. Designing for Impact: Considering the Broader Context:

Design is not just about creating visually appealing products; it is about making a positive impact on society as a whole. New designers should be encouraged to reflect on their role as designers within their companies, communities, and society. By considering the ethical implications of their work, designers can create solutions that are inclusive, accessible, and sustainable. This requires an understanding of diverse perspectives, empathy, and a commitment to challenging established exclusionary systems.

Actionable Advice:

1. Seek out mentorship: Connect with experienced designers who are willing to guide and support you on your journey. They can provide valuable insights, resources, and help you navigate the industry more effectively.

2. Stay curious and updated: Design is a constantly evolving field. Stay curious, explore new design trends, and continuously update your skills to stay ahead of the curve. Attend workshops, conferences, and join design communities to learn from others and expand your knowledge.

3. Use your voice: As a designer, you have the power to shape the digital landscape. Use your voice to advocate for inclusivity, diversity, and ethical practices. Speak up against exclusionary systems and push for positive change within your company and industry.

Conclusion:

Designing a more inclusive and impactful digital industry requires a collective effort from designers at all levels. By embracing animation, breaking down barriers through mentorship and curated resources, and designing for impact, new designers can contribute to creating a more diverse, accessible, and ethical digital landscape. Remember to seek mentorship, stay curious and updated, and use your voice to advocate for positive change. Together, we can shape a future where design truly represents and serves all.