4 answers
Alex
Student
1
Question
4 answers
Anthony Westerfield Kondeati
Brand & Behavior
2
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
A designer creates the most effective path from point A to point B. Whether it's a product, service, or just presenting an idea in a presentation, the designer understands the purpose of that thing--what it's intended to achieve--and creates the most effective way of achieving it.
For example, Tabasco might want people to eat more of their hot sauce. A marketer might run advertising showing all the different types of food Tabasco goes well with to try and convince people to use more of it. Someone in Sales might try selling new flavors to supermarkets. But a packaging designer might just make the hole in the bottle bigger.
One last thing. A lot of people think that "good design" is objective. Don't listen to those people. "Design" is not how things look, it is how they work. "Good design" is an unknowable science--there's no way of knowing if you could have designed something better, until someone does.
For example, Tabasco might want people to eat more of their hot sauce. A marketer might run advertising showing all the different types of food Tabasco goes well with to try and convince people to use more of it. Someone in Sales might try selling new flavors to supermarkets. But a packaging designer might just make the hole in the bottle bigger.
One last thing. A lot of people think that "good design" is objective. Don't listen to those people. "Design" is not how things look, it is how they work. "Good design" is an unknowable science--there's no way of knowing if you could have designed something better, until someone does.
Komal Kirtikar
3
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Komal’s Answer
Hello Alex, it's wonderful to see your interest in the diverse world of 'designers'. The advice above is certainly valuable, but I'd also encourage you to explore the websites of renowned 'design' companies to get a feel for their unique roles.
One such company that stands out in 'design thinking' is IDEO. Their work is truly inspiring and I highly recommend you take a look at their website: https://www.ideo.com/
OXO is another company that is well-regarded for their exceptional design. You can check out their creative works here: https://www.oxo.com/
For a more personal perspective, LinkedIn is a great resource. By browsing through profiles, you can gain a deeper understanding of the varied roles and paths in design. Keep exploring, Alex, and let your curiosity guide you!
One such company that stands out in 'design thinking' is IDEO. Their work is truly inspiring and I highly recommend you take a look at their website: https://www.ideo.com/
OXO is another company that is well-regarded for their exceptional design. You can check out their creative works here: https://www.oxo.com/
For a more personal perspective, LinkedIn is a great resource. By browsing through profiles, you can gain a deeper understanding of the varied roles and paths in design. Keep exploring, Alex, and let your curiosity guide you!
Nicole Ndzibah, MBA, BS, AS
Fashion & Retail Professional and Educator
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
A “Designer” creates concepts for product (fashion) designs of apparel typically intended to be sold to the public. Some designers create for their own brands. Others work for companies where they may design a specific category (ex. Women’s dresses or Men’s sweaters).
But all designers, must have knowledge of garment construction, textiles, pattern making, sizing, sketching and other skills valuable whether designing for oneself of another brand.
Explore design related programs through non-profits and higher ed.
Determine what type of design you’re interested in (women’s apparel, men’s accessories, shoes, non-apparel, etc.)
Start sketching designs that can be added to your portfolio
Explore employment options to gain an understanding of what’s required
But all designers, must have knowledge of garment construction, textiles, pattern making, sizing, sketching and other skills valuable whether designing for oneself of another brand.
Nicole recommends the following next steps:
Shandy Reed
Key Account Manager
14
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Shandy’s Answer
A designer can apply to many different roles...fashion, web, marketing. It is an opportunity to create. Think about what you are good at and what you enjoy to help you narrow down the type of design you might be interested in studying. Best of luck!