Why do we disagree when it comes to design?
Design is many things to many people. It’s the way we communicate, it’s art, and it’s a way to solve problems and make sense of the world around us. We have it embedded into everything in our daily lives whether we like it or not, and that’s the question here today.
Being a highly subjective matter, people often disagree when it comes to their personal preferences on design. What one person considers beautiful or functional may be completely different from another's opinion. The reasons why people disagree on design preferences are varied and complex, but it can become a big barrier when it comes to deciding on designs for specific business functions.
Here are some of the most common reasons we disagree on design for you to identify and help your team solve to get to the best possible outcome.
1. Personal taste and experience
Our personal experiences, preferences and beliefs are shaped by factors such as our upbringing, cultural background, age, and education. Our experiences with art, music, fashion, and other forms of design can also influence our preferences.
For example, someone who grew up in a traditional household may prefer ornate, classic designs, while someone who was raised in a modern home may prefer minimalistic, sleek designs. Furthermore, some people may have a more emotional response to certain design styles, which could be related to their personality, mood, or emotional state.
2. Purpose and function
Designs are created with a particular purpose or function in mind, and this can affect our preferences. For instance, some people may prefer designs that are sleek and minimalistic, while others may prefer designs that are more ornate and decorative.
This could be due to the purpose of the design, such as the difference between social media advertisements and haute couture coffee table books. In UI/UX, designs that are intended for daily functions may prioritise function and efficiency, while designs for onboarding or rewarding a user may prioritise aesthetics and excitement.
3. Associations and meanings
Designs can also be associated with certain meanings or messages. For example, a design that is trendy and stylish may be associated with innovation, while a design that is more rustic and vintage may be associated with tradition and history.
These associations can influence our preferences, especially if we value certain qualities or ideals. Additionally, some designs may have cultural or symbolic meanings that vary across different regions and communities.
4. Trends and social norms
Design trends can be influenced by a variety of factors, including technological advances, fashion trends, and cultural shifts. These trends can affect our preferences, as we may be more likely to appreciate designs that are currently popular or in vogue.
Similarly, social norms can also influence our design preferences by setting expectations for what is considered tasteful or stylish. For example, certain design styles may be seen as more prestigious or aspirational, leading people to prefer those designs over others. Additionally, people may be influenced by the opinions of their peers or the media, which can further shape their design preferences.
In the context of business for design (including brand identity, it is crucial to get all stakeholders on the same page. One way to do this is by having a systematic approach to researching, testing and finally deciding on what approach works best for the business. Well-trained designers or experienced creative agencies will be able to bring you through this thorough but necessary process, although there are many resources out there that can help you get started on your own.
Ultimately, due to the highly subjective nature of design, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to what we like and prefer. But understanding the most effect designs for your business can help you filter through these factors that influence our design preferences. Still, in our day to day lives we can make a conscious effort to appreciate the diversity and complexity of design, and perhaps even broaden our own design horizons.
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