The sceptical designer
I have been working with Dave on Maibru for a long time now. And then you get to know each other pretty well. Yes, Dave, it is true. You can't escape it. I like you, but you are sceptical. But then I read an article that said sceptical designers are very good designers. Suddenly, you went from friend to good friend. So your personality fits perfectly into the growth of our brand. So the article immediately had my attention.
An article with a different approach to designers, because by now I'm a bit done with articles about what a designer should or should not do and what makes a good designer. But I had never read an article about the importance of a sceptical designer. While you, Dave, really should be put in that âboxâ. So buckle up. Here we go. My highlights from the story and the translation to Maibru.
Scepticism is not cynicism
Let us first dispel some misconceptions about scepticism. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, scepticism is certainly not cynicism. Cynicism is the attitude that shows disbelief in values or good intentions. Scepticism assumes nothing, but asks for evidence to support arguments and claims.
Scepsis is not open-minded
The sceptic must be prepared to let go of even the most cherished and convincing of beliefs when confronted with contradictory evidence.
Ok. Now that that is clear we can move on. Misconceptions out of the air. There are probably more, but still we move on. Over the past few months we have talked a lot and explored each other's thinking further. And I have often said to you don't be so sceptical. But I take that back now, because sceptical designers are good! Jackpot!
But why? You, and apparently many other sceptical designers, do not take things for granted. Although this is sometimes difficult to understand for the less sceptical among us. And sometimes, and excuse my French, itâs just a pain in the a**. But in the meantime, it has helped us in our way of working. Because it is true that what people say and what people do are not the same. And that this has a great influence on the brand and design. And also that we have to take a close look at the ideas and strategies coming from people in certain positions. Of course, we take those guidelines with respect and seriously, but as already said: as a sceptical designer, you look for evidence. Thatâs why the diagnostic phase is so important in our approach. Yes, you could be right with your assumptions, but letâs put it to the test, so we know for sure that this is the right direction for the brand.
But still, I would like to end with a word of warning. It is not always easy to work with a sceptical designer. Just answering a question once in a while with: âyes, we will do thatâ. That would be really nice. But then again, that is at odds with our own way of working and methodology. Because you can't make a difference if your work is purely based on assumptions.
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