Skip to content

I describe the design process as like the tip of the…

“I describe the design process as like the tip of the iceberg. What you don't see is the long haul: all the endless auditing and things like that.” quote by Norman Foster
Download Open image
“I describe the design process as like the tip of the iceberg. What you don't see is the long haul: all the endless auditing and things like that.”

Norman Foster

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Design involves extensive unseen work, like auditing, that underpins visible results.

In simple terms: Design is like an iceberg; most work is hidden.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the hidden effort behind outcomes.

Themes

design process depth transparency

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

professional educational

When to use this quote

  • architectural planning
  • product development
  • research phases
  • quality assurance

Key Concepts

systems thinking project management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you communicate hidden work to stakeholders?
  • What hidden processes support your successes?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate the visible final product’s impact.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Norman Foster

Explore all 40 Norman Foster quotes

More Describe quotes

Browse all 258 Describe quotes