understanding needs … framing problems … prototyping … iterating

We see design as the deliberate shaping of the environment in ways that satisfy individual and societal needs.  It is a process as much as an outcome, helping to identify core, root issues, addressing both current and future needs.  Design embraces the uncertainty and challenge of complex problems and expects understanding to evolve throughout the process.

embracing many contexts

We use design to provide critical insights for all forms of human endeavor:  the development of products and services, the structure of organizations or society, transportation systems or public policy.  We strive to use design to integrate technology, people and societal needs in meaningful ways..  While the Design Institute’s roots are in engineering design, we seek and engage experts in business, art, psychology and communication in the design process.

building community

Ours is a diverse community of undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and researchers, practitioners and thought leaders.  We are industrial designers, graphic designers, engineers, computer scientists, writers, performers, managers, and more.  We offer courses, projects, certificates and degrees for undergraduate and graduate students, and we build strong cross-disciplinary teams. Whether they are designing for stroke survivors in our freshman course, tackling civic challenges in Design for America, or sharpening design thinking skills in a graduate degree program, the people of Segal are united by one thing:  a passion for design. Our vision is that design invites and engages all to shape their environment in meaningful ways.

… improving human experience through design