Everyone deserves great design: Design towards the 100%

Noursalehi, Ehsan

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/49542 Copy

Description

Title

Everyone deserves great design: Design towards the 100%

Author(s)

Noursalehi, Ehsan

Issue Date

2014-05-30T16:49:12Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Weightman, David I.

Department of Study

Art & Design

Discipline

Art and Design

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.F.A.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• Design
• Social Design
• Capitalism
• Humanitarian Aid

Abstract

This thesis illustrates that everyone deserves great design and suggests methods on how to achieve it. A new mindset for product design is developed and presented here advocating for incentives, both economic and humanitarian, in order to create more equitable products around the world for people without discriminating based on traditional geographic, economic, or cultural stereotypes. It is argued that it is possible to intentionally create great designs for everyone by using the following four principles: 1. Simultaneously Embrace Desires & Constraints Create a solution that embraces and satisfies constraints & desires. It must be simultaneous. One cannot ignore the other. 2. Minimize Resource Inefficiencies Start with a systematic analysis of the product. Use first principles to reinvent problematic aspects. 3. Optimize Value Provide the maximum functional, social, and emotional value for a minimum initial investment and low long-term maintenance cost. 4. Dignify Everyone We are all human. Do not discriminate based on geography, culture, or economic status. A homeless person and the President should be treated equally. These principles are utilized to curate 40 examples of great design for everyone and discussed in relation to two case studies.

Graduation Semester

2014-05

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http://hdl.handle.net/2142/49542

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2014 Ehsan Noursalehi

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