Articles
Designing for Social Good
By Ashita Gupta, Content DesignerFebruary 15, 2024
Since the dawn of the 21st century, design for social good has moved from a niche interest to a powerful movement. We, as designers, are no longer mere toolmakers for brands. We are storytellers, educators, and ultimately, shapers of tomorrow. We hold the power to craft narratives that empower the disenfranchised, illuminate complex issues, and inspire collective action.
Our toolbox is brimming with potent possibilities: the eye-catching power of imagery, the intuitive elegance of user interfaces, and the ability to influence how people perceive the world around them. It’s time we wielded these tools not just for commercial gain, but for the betterment of humanity.
The Power of Visual Communication
Visual communication is a universal language that transcends barriers, making it a potent medium for conveying messages and influencing perceptions. A well-designed campaign can reach millions of people and leave a lasting impact. According to a study by MIT neuroscientists, the human brain can process images in as little as 13 milliseconds, emphasising the significance of visual communication in capturing attention and conveying information efficiently (Anne Trafton et al., 2014). Graphic design, then, becomes an instrument of narrative, a bridge builder, and a catalyst for social change.
Designing for All
Design doesn’t just engage audiences, it drives action. User experience (UX) and functionality are key to creating intuitive and visually appealing websites that build trust and credibility (Lindgaard et al., 2006). Inclusivity is paramount, ensuring the benefits of design reach everyone. When 15% of the global population lives with some form of disability (World Health Organization, 2011), designing with accessibility becomes a moral imperative, broadening reach and promoting social inclusion.
Collaborative Creation
Social good isn’t a solo endeavour. Collaborative thinking thrives where diverse perspectives converge to tackle complex challenges. Design thinking methodologies, emphasising empathy, ideation, and prototyping, allow designers to co-create solutions with the communities they aim to serve. This collaborative approach ensures that design is not just visually impactful but deeply rooted in the needs and aspirations of those it seeks to empower. A report by the Design Management Institute highlights that design-driven companies outperform their counterparts by a staggering 228% over ten years (Ravasi & Lojacono, 2005). This isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about amplifying impact by engaging those at the heart of the issue.
Measuring Impact
Design for social good doesn’t end with inspiration. Quantifying the impact of our work is crucial. Integrating measurable metrics into the design process allows us to assess success, identify areas for improvement, and refine strategies. Research from the Nielsen Norman Group emphasises the importance of usability testing in web design, revealing that every dollar invested in ease of use can result in a 100-fold return on investment (Nielsen, 2012). By weaving metrics into the design fabric, we ensure our interventions become catalysts for genuine progress.
At Multia, we had the privilege of crafting the brand and website for Poona Blind School, a beacon of hope that illuminates the lives of visually impaired students through holistic education. The school’s unwavering commitment to empowering its students inspires us all. This project was a journey of profound learning, offering us invaluable insights into the world of visually impaired education. You can glimpse the impact we made and the valuable lessons we gained by visiting the link here.
Design is no longer just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. From raising awareness about environmental concerns to empowering marginalised communities, design has the power to address the most pressing issues of our time. As designers, we have a responsibility to harness the power of design and use our skills for social good. Together, we can design a future where every voice is heard, every challenge is addressed, and every person has the opportunity to thrive.
