I am troubled by the devaluing of the word 'design’. I…
“I am troubled by the devaluing of the word 'design’. I find myself now being somewhat embarrassed to be called a designer. In fact I prefer the German term, Gestalt-Ingenieur. Apple and Vitsoe are relatively lone voices treating the discipline of design seriously in all corners of their businesses. They understand that design is not simply an adjective to place in front of a product’s name to somehow artificially enhance its value. Ever fewer people appear to understand that design is a serious profession; and for our future welfare we need more companies to take that profession seriously.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Design is a disciplined, strategic discipline, not a decorative label, and must be integrated across a company.
In simple terms: Design is a serious, strategic profession.
Key Takeaway
Treat design as core business strategy.
Themes
design
professionalism
strategy
integrity
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- product development
- corporate culture
- branding
- education
Key Concepts
Systems thinking
human-centered design
brand identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can companies embed design thinking at every level?
- What barriers prevent design from being taken seriously?
A Different Perspective
Design alone cannot guarantee success without execution and market fit.