The word “design” typically evokes images of hand-drawn sketches, color palettes, computer modeling or visually stunning products or space. But we want to explore the role of design beyond its conventional take. Good design can have the power to shape behavior, and even transform lives.
Today we launch a series, The New Blueprint, about how scientists and engineers use design to solve billion-dollar challenges in our lives. Will it enable companies to build a sustainable business? What happens when well intended efforts fall flat?
We are kicking off the series with stories on the efforts to redesign sugar and other creative approaches by food companies to soothe our health fears while maintaining a strong influence on our diet – and their profit. You’ll also get chance to test your knowledge of the sugar business in our quiz.
The series will then continue with stories that look at how design shapes politics, business and the environment. President Trump could prove a rich source of inspiration for us, given he has vowed to spend $1tn on improving the country’s aging infrastructure, from roads to airports. We will bring you stories about the people who take an novel approach to picking apart a problem and coming up with a solution in a variety of industries.
We would love to hear your ideas on how design can solve some of the thorniest challenges of our time. Please leave your comments below or email me at ucilia.wang@theguardian.com.
