license to design

chelsea lawson — updated 13 nov 2023

Modern consciousness can be separated into two primary states.

Searching behavior is setting out to meet a need or fulfill a task, like feeding your cat.

Exploratory behavior, by contrast, is seeking without an object in mind. We’re evolutionarily motivated to roam, supplying our senses with new data about the world.

In the digital age, newness and novelty are always within reach. When a body-based need arises, we stumble to the bath or the kitchen, toting our stimulation machines.

Here we could posit a third state of consciousness— trance. Generally speaking, trance states are characterized by focused attention, physical relaxation, and heightened suggestibility.

are you still watching?

Ethical design practices align with principles of transparency and empowerment.

The masters of digital attention capture will tell you they’re providing genuine value, despite employing manipulative tactics that prioritize profit over user well-being.

What’s the long term impact of all this attention seizing? Digital engagement is increasingly impacting real world social comparisons, self-evaluation, and mental health.

Design with the future in mind.

Together we can design beautiful platforms that honor human attention. Let’s design to awaken possibility in others, not to drain their precious time.

Okay, I think you’re ready. Here’s your license to design. Choose carefully.

……..WHAT

i mean, i know you have to eat…

…and pay rent

…and save up for a downpayment

…and pay for your kid’s college someday

didn’t you read my very compelling statement about how we’re going to unite to fix the world???

you thought it was cute.

the world can’t be fixed, you say

you and your family have to make it

i guess that’s an acceptable priority.

screw it, let’s make some money.

here’s a little how-to guide for beginning designers.

I. Color

The over-saturation of color in today’s digital landscapes is forcing designers to go to great lengths to get your attention.

Because humans instinctually respond to vivid color, bombard your audience with the brightest possible shades.

Color should be leveraged to trigger specific emotional responses. The meanings traditionally associated with each color vary by culture, but red is universally alarming.

II. Motion

From TikTok to the New York Times, movement is on the rise.

Motion elements can gracefully relay the essence of a product, service, or story.

Or they can annoy the hell out of someone. Designers can combat “banner blindness” by adding features like rapid flashing, spinning, or shape-shifting.

I personally avoid websites that feel like an epileptic seizure, but people don’t seem to mind much. Whatever gets that ad money flowing.

Alternatively, you can learn to wield motion masterfully.

Thoughtful animation can contribute to a more intuitive user experience. Good UX/UI designers imbed subtle moving cues, enhancing the navigational flow across a digital surface and transforming the experience of touching a screen into a rich and responsive one.

III. People

Platforms like Instagram capitalize on humanity’s dominance hierarchy. Dominance within a society was traditionally signaled by an excess of social attention. Today we consistently direct our gaze towards the most prominent figures.

Brands can leverage desirability by aligning themselves with aspirational models.

Consumers identify with and imitate brands that have built a positive image within the culture. When a brand successfully conveys its meaning, values, and lifestyle, consumers ‘gain’ these qualities themselves through the simple act of purchasing.

That’s enough for now. Part II coming soon.