The Rise of Meta-design: A starter playbook

Thanks to algorithms, automation, and instrumentation, interaction design is increasingly routine, and predictable for the sake of efficiency, to ensure high-velocity outputs. In a world of symbol libraries and computerized usability tests, what becomes of the designer and their role? Against this backdrop, I argue we will see the rise of what I call meta-design, whose aspects are strategic, humanistic, and — dare I say — philosophic. It’s about designing the conditions for good design to thrive, for the long term, with a sense of continuity of value. So, how does someone operationalize behaviors and spiritualize values into an organization’s ethos? Well, it takes a profound mix of strategic forethought, reflection in action, creative provocation, and intellectual humanism. And yes, there’s a playbook; at least the beginnings of one!

My talk offers complementary models to shape and own dialogues around meta-design with cross-functional peers, based upon my own leadership experiences.

The first model is grounded on what I call “vectors of influence”. By keeping in mind four interrelated dimensions — vision, strategy, process, culture — a designer can pose deep questions with others, shape pathways towards impacting each in a methodical manner, that feels intentional and collaborative. The aim is to invite non-design peers to become partners in a holistic approach to shaping the conditions, while anchored in real areas of impact, with tangible outcomes. Indeed, this implies a lifecycle attitude, as each dimension feeds the other, over time, from months to years.

The second model is based upon “scopes of craft” a designer brings to a situation. Yes, designers make things; that’s our unique value! But there are at least three levels to that craft — tradecraft, stagecraft, and statecraft— offering increasing levels of influence upon others in an organization. From making artifacts that anchor conversations, to setting the scenes for participatory work, to cultivating trust or goodwill with others, this pathway of craft is vital to shaping the conditions for good design to take hold.

By applying these models (for which I will share short, specific, real-life anecdotes) designers can amplify their ability to enable meta-design, towards getting purposeful change that ensures “good design” — virtuous, ethical, humane — is supported. My talk’s goal is to inspire and equip designers to lead what’s next for our profession, or at least the beginnings of it!