Fast Company recently published an article titled “ The Most Important Design Jobs of the Future.” Focusing on the evolving nature of design, and the progression of what actually defines a designer, it asks the question: What will the graphic and UX designers of today do tomorrow? The short answer: a lot.
While some of Fast Company’s predictions verge on science fiction – such as Human Organ Designer – others highlight the current importance of design for every company. In fact, the article predicts that Chief Design Officer or Chief Creative Officer will soon be a position within EVERY company. These are just a smattering of the benefits that come from making design a priority.
Consistent brand identity for every element of business. In this often-oversaturated market, nothing separates a company from the competition better than accessible and consistent branding. No one can execute brand familiarity better than designers, and it is their mission to combine this with functionality. Seemingly small choices of color and typography can tap into the consumer subconscious, holistically identifying one brand, and deeming it superior to competitors.
Ideas that otherwise might never come to the table. There’s a reason designers are called “creatives.” While they can transform others’ rough concepts into actions, projects, and completed products or messages, designers will also present strategies that otherwise might not be considered. A good designer will always be on top of industry trends to ensure relevant and useful messages, and will always anticipate future trends.
Designers save time and money. The best designers are highly efficient, and have the ability to see the practicality of an idea, and know the steps it takes to see it executed. A designer will prevent costly missteps by getting it right the first time. Steve Jobs once said, “Design is a funny word. Some people think design means how it ‘looks,’ but of course if you dig deeper, it’s really how it ‘works.’”
Read more for other new ways we will all be using design, across all industries. From Cybernetic Directors who will teach computers to make creative choices for user personalization, to Sim Designers who create simulated people that will help predict future customer behaviors, the possibilities appear endless.