A design is a drawing or blueprint of any structure or object, the end result of which is implemented by building or constructing it. The term to design implies the process of producing a design. Designing, according to Merriam Webster, is “a process by which one prepares an original model from which ideas and materials for constructing are taken”. The origin of the word may be traced to the Latin word ‘designus’, which means ‘a drawing’. The purpose of the modern designer is to produce an exact replica of the original model, sometimes with changes to improve functionality.
The next phase of the design process is the empathize phase. In the empathize phase a designer will often investigate the problems and needs of the client in order to develop a solution for their problems. In the empathize phase many ideas are explored, and solutions are developed based on the client’s requirements. The empathize phase of the design process is often referred to as the ‘validation’ phase, because it gives designers the opportunity to see if their ideas are robust enough to withstand the testing of their clients.
Designers must apply a variety of skills during the design process, including aesthetics, problem solving, communication, analysis, research, and a variety of other creative thinking skills. Aesthetics refers to the beauty of the finished object, while problem solving requires the ability to identify problems and seek a solution. Communication is used to convey information and ideas to the client, and involves the ability to listen effectively and efficiently. Analysis is used to establish the purpose, design, functionality, and cost effectiveness of the project. And, while many designers think of their work as purely technical, good design involves the application of various technical skills, such as those mentioned above.
