Design Journal

In this digital journal, I will try to explain the principles which have influenced me, and how they have changed my views on design. I will also try to critically analyse these principles, and come to a conclusion of how much I agree with them.
I have only recently learnt about the principles of design through my time studying at university. Before then, my views on design were much more vague and undefined. With the help of this journal and a critical essay I recently wrote on ‘Why I Design’, I am starting to realise what I want from the design world, and what I am able to give back. Obviously as a nineteen year old student, I do not have, or necessarily want, a clear cut view on design, as I believe this should be gained through experience, but I am starting gain a greater insight into my design philosophy.
I have chosen two principles which have affected both my design process, and critical views as a designer. These two principles which I shall discuss are ‘Form Follows Function’ and ‘Inclusive Design’. I should say however that although these have influenced my thoughts and views on design, I do not regard either of them necessarily as principles; I regard ‘form follows function’ as a by-product of design itself. It is an ideal which has been created by striving to make a design a product which excels aesthetically and practically.
Also, I regard ‘inclusive design’ as more of a prerequisite of good product design. In the modern world of diverse cultures and mass social communication, products with a needlessly exclusive market simply go against common sense in terms of design, not to mention the rapidly increasing average age and population growth in the western world means that economically, the over 50 generation are the most likely to spend their time and money on new products.
After I have explained and critically analysed these two principles, I will also reflect on my recent essay for this module on the reasons why I design. I have set this journal out in posts in this blog, so please feel free to comment if you wish.