Thinking outside ourselves . . .

While I didn't start this blog with the intention of talking about causes, I seem to have gravitated that way frequently. So it should come as no surprise that I'm finding myself more and more drawn to people that are making a difference in one way or another. I love hearing about people who are taking great risks to create change (read about the risks Greg Mortenson has taken to educate kids in the Middle East in Three Cups of Tea) or doing small things that have big impact (such as the So-Cal Fire Poster Project). Whether large or small, risky or safe, all efforts to help others should be applauded. So I was excited to read in the latest HOW Magazine a story called "For Goodness' Sake," which highlights the efforts by various designers to make a difference. Some have done this by working pro bono full time, others have done it through small, but effective efforts on the side. It's just so exciting to see designers working with others for others.

One exciting thing about the article itself is the author's call to action for the design community as a whole. This part caught my attention in particular:

The notion of designers as problem-seekers rather than solvers is consistent with the evolution of our profession. As design has moved away from being concerned principally with form-making toward a greater involvement with the “big idea,” the tenets of design practice have shifted, as well. It’s no longer enough to be concerned simply with our ability; the fact that we’re able requires us to be responsible. That is, because it’s within our grasp to solve complex problems, it becomes necessary that we apply ourselves toward solving them.
Christopher Simmons, “For Goodness’ Sake,” HOW magazine, August 2008

The rest of the article is just as good. Find it on a magazine rack near you.