What is Design Today?

When talking about today’s design one asks many questions such as; whether it is a concept or a process. Does it follow form or function? Aesthetics or good design? Inclusive (fit for the entire population) or exclusive? Is it ergonomic? Is it useful or simply ornamental? Is it accessible, ecological or technological? Is it Modern, Traditional or Postmodern?

Ergonomic design

This applies findings from the study of anthropometrics (the comparative study of human body measurements and properties) to the design of objects. The thorough analysis of the relationship between the human form and their surroundings allows designers and manufacturers to formulate design for optimum design.

Ergonomics or ‘Human factors’

It is the study of the characteristics of human users and their relationship with the products, systems and environment. This allows a better performing product while being user-friendly with safer solutions and easier to maintain.

Example: William Clewell invented the first ice cream scoop in 1878  vs  Cutco

Design that works in harmony with the human body
Example:  Safety Razors

There is an improvement not just in the quality of the blade itself but also in the way that it fits better in the hand while introducing moving parts (like the head) to allow a better and more comfortable shave particularly when following the contours of the face.

Example:  Vertebra Armchair, 1974 – 1976 by Emilio Ambasz

This armchair was the first automatically adjustable office chair, designed to respond and adapt to the movements of the users’ body and provide comfort and support. 

Ray and Charles Eames were the ones to produce the first executive chairs, so they may have paved the way for ergonomics. 

Products are safer and more user friendly such as scissors for people who are left handed.

Designs are based on ‘weaknesses’ rather than strengths for better use and less injuries. Other examples are children’s cutlery, door handles, lemon juicer