Defining Design is hard – and is it even possible? Our own definition will shift through time, given our experiences, processes, core disciplines, etc. But most of us can certainly agree that a designer’s purpose, no matter what the field, is to be a problem-solver. Design can never disregard its purpose and purpose can be anything, from having a better online presence, to providing a wonderful experience, to simply creating beauty, as Sagmeister keeps reminding us. In order to find purpose, we need to listen.

Being able to listen to our clients and users and going the extra mile to understand their vision, challenges and constraints is the very first step to creating value. Only after we listen can we start thinking and exposing our ideas on how things could be better – even if that means reading between the lines and coming to the conclusion that what was asked is not exactly what is needed. Only then can we design something – because we have the purpose as our driving force.

And while it might be hard, we need to remember that things can only be as great, beautiful and functional as we are allowed to make them. No matter how clear we are, it will always depend on the client’s own ability to listen too.