Designers are designing a world that is business-centered without knowing it.
This is what “Design(ers) conflict of interest”, a 2018 article by Florentin Hortopan claims.(1) To sum it up:
What should be human-centered design becomes too easily business-centered design on the altar of productivity.
Just read the whole text if you like, it’s not long and there are chances you’ll agree with Florentin. I mean, we fundamentally all agree. Nobody publicly asserts that Earth must be destroyed in the short term for the sake of globalized economy… do they?
(By the way, if really you think Earth must be destroyed, keep calm and get in touch with the VHEMT.(2) They’ve got a plan for you.)
Oki doki. Let’s have a look at Flyermann’s teaser line: “Value-Centered Design”. You may call me evil or toxic or “irresponsible by design” (as Hortopan says). But you have to admit I’m aware of what I do and I am honest with all others and myself, and mankind shall conquer Mars.
So, here we go again, Mr. Crowley. Repeat the mantra:
- Do what thou wilt,
- Be fully cognisant of what you do,
- Face lucidly the consequences of your actions, and
- Bear sole responsibility for them.
Now, dear End Users, Flyermann — as usual — won’t leave you alone in the dark when it comes to your online life. Let me help you identify some unethical design patterns and train your brain: vicious creepy demons designed the apps you’re using on a daily basis. Luke Wroblewski is Cthulhu and all hail Cthulhu’s work, including myself.
Take care and stay safe,
Monsieur Mishimoto, Art Director at Flyermann
(1) Design(ers) conflict of interest by Florentin Hortopan
(2) VHEMT.org