Reading Reflection 4

Haskett Chapter 9-10

Context for design is a topic that is very interesting due to the flexible nature of design and the design process. Design as explained by Haskett takes many different forms and roles in our lives; however, most often this makes design vague and hard to recognize for users. This invisible or unrecognized nature of design makes it difficult for designers to define their role and the necessity of their work in many cases. Therefore, there is a lack of defined and recognized context for design. As Haskett explains, the need for design and designers is better recognized in large companies and countries that have dedicated resources to the excellence of design but the context is still lost on a smaller scale. It is important to not only recognize and understand design as designers but also to promote its necessity and importance to the public (or users). Professional associations specific to some design fields have already contributed to this goal but I think as designers, we should recognize this goal as a necessity and help to create "context" for our professions.

The last chapter of Haskett focuses on the future of design. Haskett elaborates on the examination of all elements involved in the design process including technology, demographics, markets, contextual changes, and the role of the designer as a whole. As explained in the chapter, the future of design rests on the choices that we as designers make. Whether we design for mass consumption or for the betterment of every day living conditions and life necessities is a choice that must be made by each designer and is a choice that will affect the future of design. Again, Haskett clarifies that the role of design in the future is dependent on the success of the designers in delivering the message of importance and necessity to the users and decision makers.