Theory

There are a million tutorial based websites out there that discuss the “how-to” of design; how to draw, how to model, how to fabricate. The problem with this is that by only studying the “how”, we are understanding only one of the wheels on a two-wheeled vehicle. The other wheel that is so often forgotten or ignored is the “why”. Once you have both of these components in your design education, you can then ride the bike forward.

 

 

      • How

        The benefit of the how is that it allows us to move forward. With it, we can do things like fabricate, draw, 3D model and allow our ideas to telegraph into reality. This is absolutely a critical component of the design process. However, without the direction of the why, we are just spinning our wheels.

      • Why

        The why allows us the ability to understand the reasons behind whatever it is what we are doing. It steers us. With no direction, concepts are meaningless and lack the underlying intention that makes them valuable. Without the how to carry the weight of the why, we are looking at concepts that can never leave the page.

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Where to start?

 

  • Infographics

    infographics-thumbWhat are project factors that you should consider when engaging in design? How are the ways that you can get unstuck when suffering from creative block? What are three things you can do today to improve your design game? These infographics will help you with your ability to design with better outcomes.

  • 3D Modeling Videos

    3d-modeling-thumbThese videos are the original “why-to” videos that explore basic 3D modeling principles that are essential to knowing why we 3D model in the first place. While the videos are based in Rhino 3D, the principles can be applied to just about any software package. If you want to know why we did these tutorials in Rhino, check out the PreFlight section…and learn to model fast!

  • Process

    design-process-thumbnailThere are certain steps that create the design process that inform the means that will produce a desired outcome. Let’s look at the general overview of how these steps work together to create a well informed and well executed result. This process that we’ve developed at CCD can be seen here and in the ebook Solve X, I go into detail on how you can use this to solve everyday to remarkable problems.

  • The Bookshelf

    The value of reading design books gives you insight into important topics such as ergonomics, materials, the visual language of form and so on. The books that are in this section are books that I’ve read and have found value and I think you would too. Take a look at these recommended reads to further amplify your design abilities.

  • Good Design Cohort

    Good design begins with good intentions. Here you will find companies, organizations, and individuals that offer up design in a way that benefits humanity, offer a responsible product that does more good than harm, or solves a problem in an amazing way.

  • ProTalks

    protalksthumbThese interviews with creative professionals in various industries give insights on their process. By looking at how the pros solve problems, you can get a better insight into new and innovative ways to solve your own problems.

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