Dear challengers. While design challenges are fun and force you to think, they can also be used as a tool to learn, build your portfolio and open up your mind to different perspectives to the same problem. Here are 5 quick tips on how you can make the most of this 30 day design challenge.Â
#1 – Research the problem, not the solution.
Once you get your challenge – spend 20 minutes to an hour to read about the given topic and understand it fundamentally. Then think of its possible solution and draft it. Refrain from heading onto Pinterest or other inspirational platforms to see how others have designed the solution – rather think of one on your own. Remember – this is a design thinking challenge – and there are no right or wrong answers – and no judgements on your skill levels. We are only seeing how creatively can you think and solve for a problem you truly empathize with and understand.#2 – Interpret the problem however you like. Think like you. Be you.
Remember the example of a glass of water half filled or half empty? Similarly – it is up to you how you read the everyday design challenge. Some of the best designers in history are the ones who just managed to read a problem differently than most others. We are not expecting you to deliver expected answers afterall all. Again, there are no right or wrong solutions. Read and understand the challenge in your own way to your best understanding and logic. Donât overanalyze!
#3 – Keep up and commit everyday. Even if it’s just a 15 minute doddle.
#4 – Curate your Instagram feed. Pick a style or a colour palate.
#5 –Â Warm up with a good read: The Design of Everyday Things
Now imagine a door.
There are many alternate solutions. You can open the door with a handle on the right. Or on the left. You can push. Or pull. You can slide it in any direction. It could be even hinged and swings open instead. Or maybe it can be a revolving door. These are all correct solutions to a simple everyday problem – How to open a door? And thatâs the purpose of this challenge. To make you think design for creative problem solving.
If you want to warm up and have the time – read up this pdf version of the bible for designers like us – âThe design of everyday thingsâ by Don Norman.
Download your PDF copy from here. I just finished reading it! Happy learning.
Remember, make the best out of your #streettrotter30daydeaignchallenge ! Make happy, simple designs – and celebrate design!
