Tom Peters: 'Design is so critical it should be on the agenda of every meeting in every single department.'

Design is so critical it should be on the agenda of every meeting in every single department.

The quote by Tom Peters, "Design is so critical it should be on the agenda of every meeting in every single department," encapsulates the immense value and significance of design in various aspects of our lives. In a straightforward manner, Peters emphasizes the importance of incorporating design thinking into all departments and meetings. Design, traditionally associated with aesthetics and visual appeal, goes beyond mere surface-level considerations. It is a holistic approach that considers functionality, user experience, and problem-solving. By incorporating design in every department and meeting, organizations can foster innovation, improve customer satisfaction, and drive business growth.However, beyond the practical implications of this quote lies a philosophical concept that may provide a fresh perspective. The idea of "design" can be linked to the broader concept of intentionality. Just as designers aim to create intentional and purposeful products and experiences, individuals should embrace intentionality in their thoughts, actions, and decisions. Designing is not limited to physical products but extends to all aspects of life, including personal relationships, professional endeavors, and self-development.When we approach every meeting and departmental interaction with design thinking, we embrace intentionality in our work. We start considering the end goal, the experience we want to create, and the optimal way to achieve it. Just like a designer carefully chooses color palettes, shapes, and materials, we too can carefully choose our words, actions, and strategies to shape the outcomes we desire.Incorporating design into meetings can transform them from mundane tasks to engaging and productive sessions. With design thinking at the forefront, meetings become platforms for collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation. By considering how we can design meetings to capture the attention and participation of all attendees, organizations can foster creativity and generate novel ideas. Moreover, considering elements such as meeting structure, agenda design, and participant engagement can result in more meaningful outcomes and actionable decisions.The applications of design thinking extend beyond meetings. In every department, whether it be marketing, finance, or human resources, design should play a crucial role. For instance, marketers can use design principles to craft compelling campaigns that resonate with their target audience. By considering elements such as typography, color psychology, and layout, they create visually appealing and impactful materials that effectively communicate their message.In finance, design can be applied to financial statements, reports, and presentations. By incorporating data visualization techniques, financial data can be presented in a visually appealing and easily understandable manner. This, in turn, helps stakeholders make better-informed decisions based on clear insights.Similarly, in the realm of human resources, design thinking can shape recruitment processes, employee training materials, and office spaces. By considering the needs and preferences of potential hires, organizations can create a candidate experience that not only attracts but also retains top talent. Moreover, designing office spaces that promote creativity, collaboration, and well-being contributes to a positive work environment.In conclusion, the quote by Tom Peters emphasizes the critical role of design in every department and meeting. Design thinking goes beyond aesthetics, encompassing functionality, user experience, and problem-solving. However, when we delve deeper into this quote, we discover a philosophical concept that encourages intentionality and purposefulness in all aspects of life. By applying design principles to meetings and departments, organizations can foster innovation, improve customer satisfaction, and drive business growth. Design should not be limited to specific fields but should permeate all areas of life, enabling us to shape intentional and meaningful experiences. So, let us embrace design in its broader sense and bring it to the forefront of every meeting, every single department, and ultimately every facet of our lives.