By Thomas Dal
In an era of transformative technologies and innovation, new opportunities are constantly being unlocked, shaping a promising future. At present, industries are undergoing rapid digital transformation, and bringing a seismic shift in their processes, functions, work, and even the way they think. They are making efforts to create immersive digital experiences that are enhanced, evolved, improved, and most importantly, human-centric. Whether it is a website or a smartphone app, the focus is now on creating visual and interactive products, and since design plays a vital role in coming up with such unique digital experiences, this transformation is opening up huge career opportunities in the field of design study. Also, learning design paves the way to empower learners, build exciting careers, and get a platform to showcase their creative and innovative minds to the world.
Learning design is beneficial especially in India as the country is registering an economic ascent and digital transformation. It is witnessing a huge demand for designers as various industries are looking for talented and creative minds. Aspiring designers who can create digital media experiences, and user interfaces, work on packaging or web design, visual communication, and others can benefit from a plethora of career opportunities that are emerging within the realm of design. Also, design study enables them to put themselves at the forefront of innovation by creating visually appealing products that cater to the needs of diverse industries. Considering programs that prioritise design can equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge, enabling them to succeed in the competitive world of commercial art and design, and shaping their future as successful designers.
Regarding career opportunities, design study presents various avenues for professional development in many areas. For instance, industrial designs and specialised fields such as automobile design offer opportunities to design vehicles that are not just aesthetically superior but also meet performance, safety, and sustainability aspects to attract customers. Additionally, in the era of digitalization, the importance of an enhanced user experience and user interface can’t be understated. This means professionals competent in creating seamless and enjoyable interactions between users and digital interfaces will be in high demand. Moreover, designing virtual spaces, AR or VR-based applications, games, animations, and interactive simulations are also bringing great opportunities for students of design in the coming period.
Another noteworthy factor that is bridging the gap between opportunities in design study and aspiring designers is the rise of specialised design schools. These educational institutions are making it easier for design students by coming up with courses that are dedicated to the fundamentals of design. Enrolling in a graduate or post-graduate program offers students a solid understanding of design principles and allows them to guide their creative process. The programs are designed to enable students to translate their ideas into objects, services, or experiences by learning different methodologies of creation, expert drawing skills, 3D modelling, mock-ups, simulation, etc. Additionally, it enhances employability by specialising and developing skills in different business areas and constant association with professionals and businesses. This approach gives students adequate exposure to learning in professional settings, along with internships that complement their skills and career goals.
In essence, design education holds a promising future for students looking to explore their creative side along with having a successful career to thrive in a dynamic and ever-evolving world. By learning design from specialised design schools, they not only contribute to shaping a future where interactive and visually appealing digital experiences take centre stage but also put them at the forefront of the digital revolution to reap maximum benefits from it.
The author is the Dean- Strate School of Design.