If there is a well thought-out design standard, it should…
“If there is a well thought-out design standard, it should be followed. In practice, great design comes from great designers. That is empirically the case. If a great designer did a first-rate standard, that model should be followed. Great design is not democratic; it comes from great designers. If the standard is lousy, then develop another standard.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Design standards guide practice, but true excellence stems from exceptional designers; standards are tools, not substitutes for talent.
In simple terms: Design excellence depends on talent, not democracy.
Key Takeaway
Great designers shape standards, not the reverse.
Themes
Design standards
Creativity
Authority
Excellence
Democracy
Innovation
Mood
Respectful
Critical
Analytical
Type
Observation
Opinion
Advice
When to use this quote
- Creating a corporate brand identity
- Developing a user interface for a new app
- Establishing editorial guidelines for a publication
Key Concepts
Design process
Leadership
Quality control
Practical Applications
- Setting design guidelines
- Mentoring junior designers
Questions to Reflect On
- When should a designer challenge an existing standard?
- How can organizations balance standards with creative freedom?