About this issue:
Industrial design may be a small discipline, but it is undeniably mighty. Its true value lies in its people, their diverse and refined skill sets, its integration across industries, and its ever-evolving nature. The field has a long tradition of self-refinement, constantly striving for improvement and unlocking innovation along the way.
This issue of INNOVATION celebrates that pioneering spirit, showcasing a broad range of designs—from products and services to systems—all aimed at enhancing efficiency and quality of life, while embracing the contemporary context in which they exist. The winners of the IDEA awards represent a collection of innovative artefacts that go beyond the efforts of any single company or individual.
One key highlight of this issue is the growing integration of technology into physical artefacts, a trend that is quickly becoming the norm. This shift expands the possibilities of how technology weaves into our daily lives, transforming products into active participants in usability. Additionally, data-driven engagement is gaining importance, evolving alongside material and physical innovations. What once seemed like a divide between digital and physical is now forming the foundation of a new design vocabulary—one that redefines form, function, and expression.
This year’s IDEA award winners embody this shift, offering holistic experiences across a wide range of applications—from home and work environments to outdoor and public spaces. Whether designed for personal interaction or collective engagement, these products are thoughtfully crafted to enhance user experience, adapt to changing environments and evolving needs, and seamlessly integrate into diverse product ecosystems. The focus remains on packaging utility, efficiency, safety, handling, accessibility, and comfort within artefacts while considering sustainability and pushing the boundaries of innovation.
The maturity of this focus has a long history: Consider Bruce Hannah’s essay in this issue about the Knoll Office Chair, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. It’s a behind-the- scenes look at the creation of a classic design that has stood the test of time. And it highlights the power of collaboration and shared design vision that embody the core values of the discipline, revealing first-person narratives that draw readers into INNOVATION magazine. I hope you enjoy this issue of INNOVATION.
—Aziza Cyamani, Member of the IDSA Publications Committee
Guest contributors:
- Idea: A Poem by Bruce Hannah
- IDC 2024 Recap by Caterina Rizzoni, IDSA
- Left Side, Right Side: The Knoll 2308 Chair at 50 by Bruce Hannah
- A Method for the Madness by Stephen B. Wilcox, PhD., FIDSA
In every issue:
- In This Issue by Aziza Cyamani, IDSA
- From HQ by Donté Shannon, FASAE, CAE
- Beautility by Tucker Viemeister, FIDSA
- Women on Design by Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman, FIDSA
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