A blog I read recently asked the question:
Is good design just a formula?
In the situations he describes there are certainly formulas that work. Magazine cover and movie posters, often have a similar feel or structure. They might not all be pretty but they have had time to refine a design ‘that works’ for the market they are intended.
With the web, design has yet to reach a true working formula, Trends are moving towards solutions that work to fulfill their intentions, but we are yet to see a definitive design model that does all the things necessary to be great. Draw a reader, deliver a message, function well, be easy to use and in many cases, make a sale.
Design needs to carry a purpose. We should be designing to fill a requirement, whether that be function, communication or usability.
Design without purpose is simply artwork. Nice in and of itself, but it doesn’t fill a need.
Many designers see their work as an attempt to create a piece of art that appeals to their peers. When in actual fact they should be appealing to a specified target audience, who’s design sensibilities bear very little in common with their own.
Have a read and let me know what you think. I’ll be interested to hear your opinions.
December 8th, 2007 at 9:15 am
So much agreee! But what would you say about the extra large design objects that appeared on all major design exhibitions this year? They were referred to by some authors as ‘vulgarisation’, by others as ‘design-as-art’.
December 17th, 2007 at 7:36 pm
Many design expressions like the ones you’re describing are present to create a theme or feel.
If they work then they should make the visitor feel more attached to the exhibition theme by making them feel that they are part of the design, actually walking around within it.
If they don’t fill that purpose, then yes, they are simply design for arts sake.