Designing a Diverse World

The world we live in is a tapestry of cultures, perspectives, and experiences. In the realm of graphic design, inclusivity and diversity are not just ethical imperatives but also critical to creating work that resonates on a global scale. Embracing a broad range of ethnicities, genders, and abilities among designers enriches the creative process, leading to more innovative and relatable designs to a broader spectrum of consumers.

Reflecting reality

Graphic design is a powerful communication tool that shapes perceptions and influences behaviors. When design teams lack diversity, the resulting work can inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes or fail to resonate with a broader audience. For design to be effective, it must reflect the diverse world it seeks to engage with. Inclusive design practices ensure that various cultural nuances and unique perspectives are considered, making the end product more relatable and effective.

It can be anecdotally said that the design profession already comes across somewhat queer (do queer people tend to be more open to creative thinking? Perhaps some science will emerge one day) however, there’s still some way to go for designers and their work to be fully embraced.

Driving innovation

Boston Consulting Group states that “companies with more diverse management teams have 19% higher revenue due to innovation.” Harvard Business Review notes that “teams with diverse members were found to be more creative and better at problem-solving than homogenous teams.” Similarly, Deloitte found that “inclusive teams are 8 times more likely to achieve better business outcomes.” It seems clear then that diverse teams bring a wealth of experiences and viewpoints to the table, fostering creativity and innovation. Different cultural backgrounds, life experiences, and problem-solving approaches can lead to unique ideas and solutions that might not emerge in a homogenous group. This diversity of thought is a significant driver of innovation, allowing for fresh and dynamic design approaches that stand out in a crowded market.

Embracing cultural narratives

Juan Martinez, a graphic designer of Latinx descent, emphasizes the importance of incorporating cultural narratives into design. “Our culture is rich with stories, colors, and symbolism that can add depth to design work. By integrating these elements, we create designs that are not only beautiful but also meaningful and representative of our heritage.” It’s encouraging to see successful Designers within the LGBTQ+ community speak out to a larger audience. The Queer Creative podcast gives voice to queer creatives on their work, like and struggles. John Voss, Editor for Queer Design Club, thinks “the future of design is queer” – he refocuses the perspective from thinking about queer people in design to what the product of queer design is and could be.

Gender inclusivity in Design

Emily Wang, a non-binary graphic designer, discusses the impact of gender inclusivity in the design industry. “Design should be a space where all genders feel seen and respected. This means moving beyond traditional gender norms and creating work that acknowledges and celebrates gender diversity. It also means fostering an inclusive environment where designers of all genders can thrive.” In web design, Tiny Coast suggests the key points to consider when designing LGBTQ+ friendly websites, which include utilizing inclusive imagery and diverse models that genuinely represent the community (of course, it should be well thought through and not just tick the boxes), as well as minor tweaks like incorporating gender-neutral l in the copy. Similarly, Radish Lab highlights the same key points that businesses should consider when creating content and preparing messaging for their prospective audience.

Accessibility: Designing for all abilities

Ahmed Patel, a designer with a focus on accessibility, underscores the importance of designing for people of all abilities. “Inclusive design is about more than aesthetics; it’s about functionality and accessibility. We need to consider how our designs are experienced by people with different abilities. This can range from color contrast for those with visual impairments to ensuring our websites are navigable for those using screen readers.” Shillington has created a useful list of resources for creatives with links to communities, platforms and directories, archives, charities and other organizations that’s well worth a look. Creative Lives in Progress list a further 10 specific communities for queer, trans and non-binary creatives.

The business case for inclusivity

Inclusive design practices enable companies to reach a broader audience. By creating work that resonates with diverse demographics, businesses can expand their market reach and appeal to a global audience. This inclusivity not only drives engagement but also builds brand loyalty among diverse customer bases. Brands that prioritize diversity and inclusivity in their design practices are often viewed more favorably by consumers. This positive perception can enhance brand image and reputation, positioning the company as a forward-thinking and socially responsible entity. In today’s socially conscious market, consumers are increasingly supporting brands that align with their values.

Overcoming challenges to inclusivity

One of the significant challenges to achieving inclusivity in design is implicit bias. Design teams must actively work to recognize and address their biases, which can influence everything from hiring practices to design choices. Regular training and open conversations about diversity can help mitigate the impact of these biases. For diversity to thrive, the workplace must be a supportive environment where all voices are heard and valued. This involves creating policies that promote equality, such as mentorship programs for underrepresented groups, and fostering an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated. Education plays a crucial role in fostering inclusivity in the design industry. Design schools and professional organizations should prioritize curricula that highlight the importance of diversity and teach students how to create inclusive designs. Workshops, seminars, and continuous learning opportunities can keep these topics at the forefront of the industry.

Companies should actively seek to diversify their teams by implementing equitable hiring practices. This might include broadening recruitment efforts to reach underrepresented groups, offering internships and scholarships to students from diverse backgrounds, and ensuring that hiring panels themselves are diverse. Collaboration is key to inclusivity. Design teams should encourage open dialogue and the sharing of diverse perspectives. This collaborative approach not only enriches the creative process but also ensures that all team members feel valued and included. Happy, focused designers produce better, more effective designs.

Inclusivity and diversity in graphic design are not just beneficial; they are essential for creating work that resonates in our globalized world. By embracing a wide range of perspectives, designers can produce innovative, effective, and meaningful designs. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to champion diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that the designs of today and tomorrow reflect the rich tapestry of our diverse world.