Transparent Lens: My Design Manifesto

Introduction

Design is more than just a profession; it’s a way to connect, communicate, and create impact. Sharing your vision is crucial in the design field, where knowledge exchange, feedback, and collaboration are daily practices. Designers have the unique opportunity to shape perceptions, behaviors, and even societies. This manifesto reflects my current principles, aspirations, and thoughts about what it means to design responsibly and meaningfully, while encouraging others to consider their role in this dynamic field. It serves as both a personal guide and an invitation to engage with the deeper purpose of design.

The journey to creating this manifesto has been one of reflection and exploration. It’s a culmination of lessons learned during my academic studies, professional experiences, and personal observations. Through design, we navigate complexities, solve challenges, and envision possibilities. I hope this manifesto provides clarity and inspiration, not just for me but for anyone seeking to understand the profound impact of design in our interconnected world.

Design, at its core, is about relationships — between people, between ideas, and between systems. It is a dialogue that demands constant learning, adaptation, and empathy. As designers, we are storytellers and problem-solvers, creating not only solutions but also connections. This manifesto is a reflection of my ongoing commitment to this dialogue and to making design a transformative force for good.

Design Philosophy

Design has the power to shape society — whether for good or ill. It is both a responsibility and an opportunity to address pressing issues like ethics, sustainability, and trust. I believe that good design goes beyond aesthetics to embody transparency, inclusivity, and responsibility. To me, design is about creating meaningful solutions within the right context, rather than selfishly imposing personal visions or succumbing to superficial trends.

One of my professors once said, “You can design an environment as a solution, or you can design a new tool as a solution in an existing environment.” This concept resonates deeply with me as it encapsulates the importance of thoughtful context in design. During my thesis research on misinformation and fact-checking, I encountered Emily M. Bender’s (et al.) paper, On the Dangers of Stochastic Parrots. This paper uses the metaphor of a “stochastic parrot” to critique how large language models (LLMs) operate without true understanding, relying solely on predictions. Such metaphors have taught me the importance of accessible communication in tackling complex design challenges. It’s not just about creating; it’s about translating complex ideas into meaningful narratives that guide decisions.

Key values to focus on:

• Transparency: A foundation for trust in any design. Being clear about intentions and methods ensures credibility.
• Ethics: The compass that guides every decision, ensuring that solutions benefit society and avoid harm.
• Inclusivity and Accessibility: Design is for everyone. Equal consideration for all users is non-negotiable.
• Knowledge Sharing: Empowering others by sharing insights, tools, and techniques fosters collective growth and innovation.
• Sustainability: Recognizing the environmental and societal impacts of what we create and striving to reduce harm.

Design is also a reflection of its time and place. As society evolves, so too must our approach to design. It’s an ever-changing field that requires adaptability, curiosity, and a deep understanding of the human experience. The decisions we make today will shape tomorrow’s world, which is why a forward-thinking and ethical approach is essential.

In essence, design is a living process. It reflects our values, aspirations, and responsibilities as a society. By aligning design with these principles, we can create work that not only solves problems but also inspires progress.

Mission, Aspirations, and Goals:

As a designer, I see myself as a problem-solver. Mutual respect, understanding, and clear communication with stakeholders are essential in creating impactful solutions. My role is to balance technological innovation with humanity’s needs (or going further, more-than-humanity’s), keeping ethical considerations at the forefront.

Designers wield great power and responsibility. Although I have not yet participated in a globally influential project, I recognize the potential impact of every design decision — on communities, environments, and future generations. The ability to positively affect lives, systems, and perceptions drives my passion and commitment. It’s this responsibility that motivates me to approach my work with care, diligence, and an open mind.

I aim to push my design practice toward creating sustainable, ethical, and inclusive solutions. Whether addressing environmental concerns, technological biases, or accessibility gaps, I hope to influence meaningful change in the world. For instance, I aspire to work on systems that not only provide convenience but also actively enhance societal well-being, bridging gaps that currently exclude marginalized groups. These aspirations reflect my belief that design should always aim for greater good and inclusivity.

To grow as a designer, I will embrace lifelong learning, explore emerging technologies, and collaborate with diverse teams. I believe adaptability and curiosity are keys to staying relevant and impactful in the field. By experimenting with new tools and techniques, I plan to broaden my skill set while remaining committed to the core values of ethical and sustainable design. My journey is one of constant evolution, where every project and challenge becomes an opportunity to refine my craft and deepen my understanding.

Aspiring toward greater goals, I see the potential for design to transcend boundaries and foster understanding across cultures and disciplines. Design is not just about creating products or services but about shaping experiences and inspiring change.

Focus Areas

Technology isn’t just what we see as users. It encompasses energy consumption, environmental choices, and societal inclusions or exclusions. Understanding these hidden layers motivates me to create designs that are mindful of their broader impacts. I believe that sustainability is not a trend but a necessity. Design decisions should minimize harm while maximizing long-term value for society and the planet.

Every product, service, or system we design has a lifecycle. Considering its environmental footprint, its social implications, and its ethical ramifications ensures that we create solutions that align with a more sustainable future. The design process should be as much about asking critical questions as it is about providing answers. This approach ensures that our work is resilient and relevant in the face of global challenges.

Design should serve everyone, not just the majority or privileged few. This means considering diverse perspectives, eliminating biases, and ensuring respect for data and privacy. Inclusive design isn’t an afterthought; it’s a fundamental principle that shapes every stage of the design process. Accessibility, both digital and physical, must be woven into the fabric of every project to ensure equitable access to tools, services, and spaces.

An inclusive approach enriches the design process by broadening our perspectives and challenging our assumptions. By engaging with diverse voices and prioritizing accessibility, we create designs that are not only functional but also empowering. This is what truly drives innovation and fosters equity in the world.

My process, what I like to practice, is precise and respectful. I value others’ time, culture, and perspectives. From ideation to delivery, collaboration and iteration drive my approach. Clear communication, open-mindedness, and adaptability enable me to navigate challenges and build trust among teams and stakeholders. Additionally, I rely on frameworks and ethical guidelines to ensure that my designs align with societal and environmental values.

Ethics should be non-negotiable in the design work. This includes prioritizing inclusivity, and questioning the societal impact of designs. By reflecting on the consequences of design works, we should aim to contribute positively to the communities and ecosystems involved. Design is a collaborative effort, and fostering respectful dialogue is central to achieving impactful outcomes.

By embracing these principles, I strive to make every project an opportunity to create value, foster understanding, and inspire meaningful progress.

Call to Action

My aim is to stay curious and adaptable, making the best of my environment while pursuing the right causes with integrity and knowledge. I will hold myself accountable to the principles outlined here, continuously seeking ways to improve and learn from each experience. These promises are not just commitments but a compass to guide my growth and ensure I remain aligned with my values.

I hope to inspire peers, clients, and society by making conscious choices and demonstrating the power of responsible design. Together, we can create solutions that matter. By challenging norms and fostering dialogue, we can push the boundaries of what design can achieve in shaping a better future. Collaboration, shared knowledge, and collective responsibility are at the heart of this mission.

One of my brothers once told me, “Ha már csinálsz valamit, csináld rendesen.” This translates to, “If you do something, do it right.” This mantra has shaped my attitude over the years, instilling a commitment to excellence and integrity in everything I undertake.

So, what can an interaction designer do in 2025? A lot. Designers are uniquely positioned to tackle the complex challenges of our time, from climate change to digital equity. As for me, I will strive to make the most of my interests and competencies, embracing continuous learning along the way. I invite you to join me in exploring what design can achieve when approached with responsibility, empathy, and vision. What is your vision for the future of design?

Written by: Emese Hubert

Images: created with Midjourney

December of 2024