Shaughnessy Reading Response

“What is Graphic Design Today?”

The author talks about how graphic design has changed over the years. In the 1980’s design became strategized and professionalized. In the 1990’s the idea of branding came about, and designers would called themselves “branding-consultants”. As time went on, graphic design was not only about the aesthetic, but also about design thinking, social design, ethics in design,  etc. The author says, “it seems as if we are a point where we nee a new definition of graphic design: one that does not diminish the importance of appearance and aesthetic integrity, but that is sustainable (green-focused), democratic (for everyone, not just moneyed elites), and technological (recognizing the way technology has changed the way we live, work and play.”

Greene Reading Response

“Design is How it Works”

This reading is related to the first reading. We are learning that design is not only about the way it looks. It is about function and how the design works, “it is not just what it looks like and feels like, Design is how it works.” Apple was an example of a company that seems to always do things right. All of their products are not only beautiful and sleek, but they make sense, and people know how to work them. The design of the products was focusing on how each item works. The author mentions that a designer should not just come in to design the finished product. “Designers need to participate in the earliest stages of product development”. This will give them a background on how the product works, and will help them to make the final design.