The gap between now and next

The challenge most run into by designers is being given a solution rather than a problem.

Any project requiring a designer has two states:

• Where it is now
• Where you want it to be

There is a gaping void of uncertainty between the two.

The temptation is to fill that void as quickly as possible. However, a designer's role is to fill the void as effectively as possible.

To do this a designer holds you back at first and asks questions, explores the territory, tries to understand your motivations.

Think of a large river. You are on the south bank and you want to get to the north.

You might ask yourself: does it look dangerous? Can I swim it? Is there a bridge? What's the currant like? What do I need to carry?

A designer first needs to understand why you need to cross, what you expect to get out of it, what the dangers and rewards are, what tools you have available to you.

Lets say you want to cross because there is a bush filled with delicious berries on the other side.

Your solution might be to dive in and swim for it.

A designer might establish that you are hungry and simply suggest the restaurant standing behind you.