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People often think of design as something that helps solve problems, but design should actually prevent problems in the first place. While you may not be a designer, applying tenets of design thinking to your life and work will help you make better decisions, build better stuff, and give you a framework to keep life and work moving forward.
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In the video titled "If You See the Mountain Lion, It's Too Late," Grant Blakeman, a designer and developer, explores the concept of design thinking and emphasizes its importance in both professional and personal contexts. He argues that design should not merely focus on aesthetics but should proactively prevent problems through intentional decision-making. Design, in Blakeman's view, is a series of choices that ultimately lead to desired outcomes, transcending beyond color palettes and typefaces. Key points discussed in the video include: - **Design Intent**: Design thinking involves making informed decisions that lead to problem-solving rather than fixating on superficial design elements. - **Balance**: Blakeman uses the analogy of craft beer brewing to illustrate the importance of balance in design. Just as flavors need to be proportionate and harmonized in brewing, so do components in a design project. - **Awareness and Observation**: He stresses that effective design thinking is rooted in awareness, cultivated through careful observation of processes and surroundings. This allows for better decision-making and anticipation of potential issues. - **Negative Space**: The concept of negative space is highlighted; Blakeman believes that giving oneself cognitive breathing room is essential for creativity and problem resolution. - **Constraints**: Blakeman posits that constraints are vital to the design process. Rather than eliminating constraints, successful designers should leverage them to drive innovation and maintain focus. - **Continuous Adjustment**: He draws parallels between tightrope walking and project management, emphasizing the need for constant adjustments to maintain balance and direction. To further illustrate his points, Blakeman shares a personal anecdote about trail running and feeling watched by mountain lions, drawing a metaphor about the significance of remaining vigilant and aware of potential threats in life and projects. He concludes with encouragement for individuals to apply design thinking principles beyond their immediate tasks, asserting that intentionality in decisions can lead to better outcomes and a more proactive approach to problem-solving. Overall, the main takeaway is the value of design thinking as a framework for anticipating and addressing challenges in various areas of life.
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