Design of Impact with Justin Ahrens of Rule 29

In this conversation, Justin Ahrens and Gage discuss the profound impact of design on the human condition, emphasizing the importance of understanding the real problems that design can solve. They explore the shift from a shareholder to a stakeholder economy, the role of data in design, and the significance of design thinking in creating sustainable and measurable impact. Through real-world examples, they illustrate how thoughtful design can enhance everyday experiences and contribute to social good, while also reflecting on their shared journey within AIGA and the Design for Good movement. In this conversation, Gage and Justin Ahrens discuss the importance of breaking down silos in design initiatives, the methodologies for design for impact, and the holistic approach to design that considers the environment and human experience. They explore the role of creativity in various aspects of life and work, emphasizing that design extends beyond traditional boundaries. They wrap up by sharing their exciting projects they’re working on, now and in the future, and their vision for a better world through intentional design and community engagement.

 

Takeaways:

• Design can impact the human condition in various ways.
• Understanding the real problem is crucial in design.
• Data should not overshadow the human aspect of design.
• Shifting to a stakeholder economy encourages humane decision-making.
• Design thinking can lead to sustainable and measurable impact.
• Good design often goes unnoticed but is essential.
• Accessibility in design benefits everyone, not just specific groups.
• AIGA has been instrumental in shaping Justin’s and Gage’s careers in design.
• Real-world examples highlight the importance of thoughtful design.
• Design initiatives often operate in silos, missing opportunities for collaboration.
• Holistic design considers the environment, economy, and the human experience.
• Creativity is not limited to traditional design; it encompasses all aspects of life.
• Designing a business involves intentionality and awareness of impact.
• The importance of ethical considerations in client projects.
• Engaging with communities enhances the design process and outcomes.
• We must all remain open to conversations where there might be some tension if we hope to understand each other.
• Sharing experiences and insights can inspire others and foster community.

Sound Bites:

• "How can we use design to make impact in the world around us?”
• “The layer of design that is most inspiring to me is a design approach that somehow impacts the human condition.”
• “Reminding ourselves that there's real people behind the data is always important.”
• “Design can change the world, for better or worse.”
• "Good design is invisible."
• "What gets measured gets improved."
• "AIGA has changed my career."
• "Design for good needs to be accessible, and consider accessibility."

Links:

Justin Ahrens on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinahrens/

Rule 29 - https://www.rule29.com/

Rule 29 on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/rule29

Rule 29 on Instagram - http://instagram.com/rule29

Rule 29 on X - https://twitter.com/rule29

Rule 29 on Dribble - https://dribbble.com/rule29

Rule 29 on LinkedIn - https://w