Good Design is for Everyone: Creating an Inclusive Future in India

Good Design is for Everyone: Creating an Inclusive Future in India

As the head of the Department of Transportation Design at Strate School of Design in Bangalore and the co-founder of Dispatch Vehicles, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the rapid acceptance of design in India. Over the years, I've come to appreciate the power of good design in not just enhancing our lives but also in fostering inclusivity and accessibility. I firmly believe that good design is for everyone, and this belief is at the core of my work in both academia and entrepreneurship.

India is a diverse and vibrant country with a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and lifestyles. This diversity presents unique challenges and opportunities for designers. Good design, in this context, transcends aesthetics and functionality; it must also cater to the unique needs and preferences of our diverse population. By adopting inclusive design principles, we can create products, services, and environments that are accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or background.

Here are some key principles for ensuring that good design is for everyone:

1. Empathy and understanding: Good design starts with understanding the end-user's needs, preferences, and challenges. By cultivating empathy for our users, we can design products and services that truly resonate with them and meet their specific requirements.

2. Universal design: Embracing the concept of universal design means creating products and environments that can be used by all people, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. This involves considering factors such as accessibility, usability, and safety throughout the design process.

3. Cultural sensitivity: India's diverse population brings with it a wide array of cultural norms, practices, and expectations. Good design must respect and accommodate these differences, creating solutions that are relevant and meaningful to different communities.

4. Sustainability: As designers, we have a responsibility to create products and services that minimize environmental impact and promote long-term sustainability. By prioritizing eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient processes, and waste reduction, we can contribute to a greener and more inclusive future for all.

5. Collaboration and co-creation: Inclusive design cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires collaboration between designers, end-users, and other stakeholders to create solutions that genuinely address the needs of the target audience. Engaging in co-creation allows for richer insights and better-designed outcomes.

In my work at Strate School of Design, I strive to instill these principles in the next generation of designers, equipping them with the skills and mindset to create a more inclusive world. Through Dispatch Vehicles, I apply these same principles to the design of delivery scooters, ensuring they are efficient, sustainable, and accessible for users across India.

Good design has the power to break down barriers, create opportunities, and improve the quality of life for everyone. By embracing inclusivity and keeping the diverse needs of our population in mind, we can pave the way for a brighter, more accessible future for all in India.