Design resilience

Design is not a department, its a survival skill

The design community remains divided: structured processes versus unbridled creativity, specialists versus generalists, methodology versus intuition. Yet beneath these philosophical differences lies a fundamental truth—certain principles consistently distinguish effective design from the merely functional.

These principles emerge not from academic theory, but from the trenches of real practice. They represent hard-won insights about craft and collaboration, about aligning diverse perspectives and building cohesive teams. Most importantly, they address design's central paradox: how to create work that endures while remaining responsive to shifting cultural currents and human behavior.

True design resilience isn't about rigidity—it's about building foundations strong enough to support constant evolution. The principles that follow reflect this philosophy: timeless in their core wisdom, adaptive in their application.

01. Design with intention

Personal aesthetic preferences, the democratization of feedback, and the overall public scrutiny that final designed solutions must face makes subjectivity the real enemy of design.

The best way to combat our subjective nature is to filter every solution, large or small, through clear intention and purpose that is strategically focused on accomplishing an agreed upon goal.

02. Having good taste is also a strategy

Not to be confused with “designing with intention.” Sometimes in order for design craft to align with design quality we have to trust our gut instincts in that the choices, pairings and combinations of visual elements we create are leading us towards the desired outcome.

03. Designers are educators

We educate on techniques, tools, templates, process and solutions. Self preservation and design integrity rely on our ability to access and align with others.

Education on the intended design approach establishes group alignment and inspires growth for everyone. It empowers others by showing them the way so that they too can act with clarity while simultaneously having ownership over the final result.

04. Designers must embrace adaptation

In the ever-changing world of design, you cannot afford to stay comfortable for too long. Software gets updated, new tools are introduced, best practices are constantly being redefined by culture.

You don’t have to chase down every new design trend, or technology. However, if you ignore them, you are sure to be left behind.

You need to be in an almost constant state of asking yourself and others – “is there a better way to do this”.

05. Design leadership

We lead by understanding unique perspectives and creating a space for expression.

Designs job is to create an environment where everyone can feel extraordinary. Its about fostering improvement and encouraging growth with patience, empathy and above all, being humble.