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Chris Wilson shared that he studied Product/Industrial Design as an undergraduate in London. “The university had excellent links with industry and the degree course centered heavily around real-life clients, from well-known companies and brands, setting genuine briefs. There was always a real chance that what we were presenting to our clients may actually make it to production.”
Today, Chris mainly teaches Product/Industrial Design. He makes easy-to-understand YouTube videos that explain advanced design techniques, helping thousands of people around the world. We suggest you visit his channel to pick up some useful design tips and tricks!
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Design plays a crucial role in our everyday lives, from the products we use to the spaces we call home and work. However, it's not always perfect, and even the most experienced designers can stumble upon design flaws. We were curious to hear about some of the most common design flaws Chris has come across in his career. “The flaw I see most regularly, and maybe it’s something I just can’t unsee anymore, is any feature that suggests it’s the work of a self-indulgent designer,” Chris told us. “When a product stands out from the crowd because of features that are of little benefit to the user, I’m left asking myself why they’re there at all. Some designers like to throw everything into their designs – but why? Usually, the answer is more about themselves than the client or end user.”
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In the world of design, creating a product that works well and looks great is a true art form. But what are the most important factors that make a product well-designed? According to Chris, it’s simplicity. “Successful designs are those which are simple to manufacture, to understand and use, and to maintain. They have a minimal impact on the environment, in manufacture, in use, and beyond. A well-designed product makes someone’s life a little easier, without being at the expense of someone else. It may be a little cliché, but I always consider the key to be subtraction, rather than addition. Find ways to make your design more simple.”
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When it comes to designing a new product, finding the right balance between looks, practicality, and ease of use can be a real challenge. Chris shared that it is always a careful mix. He emphasizes that design is often about finding a compromise. “I would put the needs of my client or end-user first and work closely with them to ensure that my ideas and their needs were in alignment. The successful designer will find ways to create an equilibrium. Equilibrium doesn’t have to consist of equally sized parts for balance to be achieved.”
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If you’re an aspiring product designer, Chris has some advice for you to avoid common design pitfalls and create more user-friendly products. “Understand the needs of your client and/or end user. Recognize and ensure that the focus is squarely upon them and their needs, not on producing work for your portfolio. Be noticed for your ability to answer the brief and become recognized for the skillful simplicity of your designs.”
To learn more about product design, check out Chris’s work on Instagram and YouTube! You can also support him at buymeacoffee.com!
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