Design Prophecy & Occasional Reflections
A Design Genetic Perspective on...everything.
Linear danger
Former head of MI5, Dame Stella Rimington, warns of a police state if we continue to exploit the fear of terrorism. So true. The question is, what does the War on Terror really represent? After studying 9/11 for a long time and in depth I’ve come to the conclusion that the true story is different from the official story. Many things point to a controlled demolition of the WTC buildings. The general public is stuck in the linear thinking and doesn’t ask questions even with contradicting information and with a clearly unscientific investigation. It’s a good example of faith in authority. The Rational truth is hidden behind an Irrational theory, but the people doesn’t see that as they are stuck in a Rational beliefe system. What a paradox.
"Spy chief: We risk a police state", Telegraph.co.uk
Design Assessment Tool
At Design Managent Europe you can try their Self Assessment Tool to understand your organization's design awareness. A good tool though rather conventional. It doesn't assess the parallel universe of behavior. Traditional Design Management is too narrow without the bird's view, seeing the whole business and organization as design not only Corporate Design attributes. I would like to see Design Management lifted to this level. However, for a basic understanding of Design Management this tool is good.
Bolon, an excellent design example
Bolon Flooring is a global leader in woven vinyl flooring. It's a family business that's been around for 50 years. But it was with the sisters Annica and Marie Eklund, that design really made its presence known. Their philosophy states "Bolon creates new possibilities for contemporary designers and architects". So true. I believe Bolon is one of the best examples of how much design matters for keeping the competitive edge.
No plan works
Probably old news but the other day I learned more about Paul Newman, the actor. Together with author A. E. Hotchner he founded a business called Newman's Own. It's a food company. All the profit goes to donations to educational and charitable organizations. Even if they claim "if we ever have a plan, we're screwed" they do have a plan. Nothing would work otherwise. But it's interesting that it works without a traditional linear plan, just from pure joy and with intentions of doing good. Their design is very much in parity with the free spirit plan, using free and organic shapes, using a sketchy touch and high complexity.
Obama makes soft curves
USA is a good example of the Bound force. Their personality is often expressed in straight lines and high contrast. They see things in black or white. Like an insecure but yet muscular and strong young guy trying to find himself and mark his territory in the group. They act decisively and want others to follow according to their point of view. I believe this is and has been the view on USA seen from the outside. But maybe Obama stand for a new emerging personality, a more soft curved and open personality, and a more harmonious and hence more self-confident type. That would be good, for all of us.