A topic that I am extremely passionate about is design.  I absolutely love fantastic design.  My love of design stems from a visit to IDEO three years ago.  I was mesmerized by their process of designing things so that they are practical in function, relevant in solving problems, and aesthetically beautiful.  So as a holiday gift last year, I received a copy of Change By Design, by Tim Brown, CEO of IDEO.

Change By Design is more than simply a guide to design.  When most people think of design, they think about the form or a product opposed to the function of the product. In Change By Design, design is used to help solve the problems by creating long-lasting solutions.

Brown splits the book into two distinct parts.  First, the design process that IDEO uses is explained.  This process entails observations, realizing the problems that people face, testing solutions, and making the product relevant to the user.  The main focus is “solving the right problem,” which means solving problems which are relevant to the customer.  The second, part is all about applying design-thinking in an environment.  In Brown discusses ranging from how to get people excited about great design to how to use design to make a difference in the world.  Change by Design, has illustrations to help visualizes the ideas Brown presents as well as section headings to give a preview of what will follow.  Brown uses clear and concise language to make the book an speedy, yet gripping read.

After reading, I have been become increasingly aware of how I could apply design thinking ideas in my day-to-day life.  I have recommended Change By Design to everyone from my friends to my teachers as a great book on how the problems of the future will be solved.  I truly believe that creative problem-solving is the only way that we can solve the problems that will plague my generation.  Overall, Change By Design is a fantastic read if you are interested in learning about deign and how it will shape the future. Change by Design is available on Amazon.