The impact of design
When Melvin Kranzberg wrote in 1986 that “Technology is neither good nor bad; nor is it neutral,” he articulated a truth that also resonates with current design practice. As our world grows increasingly complex, we’re seeing that design choices carry consequences, sometimes far beyond their intended scope.
Every organisation and client that we work with at Anthologie has some impact on society; good, bad or indifferent. Our efforts have progressively become focused on accelerating the good, minimising the bad, and designing frameworks that allow them to stand out from the pack and create momentum for change.
From features to social change
The recent history of design offers compelling evidence of how seemingly benign decisions can generate unexpected outcomes. Social media platforms, conceived as tools for connection and community, have shape-shifted into something more complex and disturbing. Facebook’s journey from college network to global communication infrastructure illustrates this transformation. The platform’s design choices in content promotion and engagement metrics have influenced everything from political discourse to social movements.
The implications became particularly clear in Myanmar over the last decade, where Facebook’s algorithmic content promotion amplified harmful messaging against the Rohingya minority. This case shows how design decisions made in pursuit of engagement and growth can have profound societal implications.
Similar patterns can be seen right across the digital landscape. Airbnb’s design has reshaped housing markets in tourist destinations, while Instagram’s emphasis on superficial perfection has changed how people interact with physical spaces. These examples underscore a crucial point: that design decisions ripple outward, touching lives and communities in significant ways. We must pay attention and to take steps to minimise harmful impacts. Equally we recognise that design, done right, can be harnessed for positive social impact.
Redefining success
This recognition has prompted an awareness shift in design practice. While metrics like user engagement and conversion rates remain as relevant as before, it is clear that they now operate within a broader framework of social impact. In 2025 design requires:
- Research that goes beyond immediate user needs to consider community effects
- Strategic thinking that anticipates long-term implications
- Co-design approaches that engage diverse stakeholders
- Impact measurement that considers both immediate and systemic outcomes
A further challenge for many design practices is to balance these broader considerations with practical business needs. At Anthologie we are fortunate to partner with many purpose-driven organisations, so the alignment occurs more organically.
Design in action
Our recent work illustrates this evolved approach:
Global Health Research Impact
A collaboration with a global health think tank demonstrates how design can bridge the gap between complex data and human impact. The project focuses on translating research funding outcomes into clear narratives about improved quality of life. This work not only supports future funding efforts but helps stakeholders understand the concrete impact of their investments. View case study
Healthy Aging Innovation
Working with a healthy aging advocacy organisation, we’ve created systems that go beyond simple engagement metrics. The design promotes independence and informed decision-making among older adults. Early results show a significant increase in preventive health engagement, suggesting potential long-term benefits for healthy aging outcomes. View case study
Healthcare Navigation
Our work on a digital companion tool for neurological patients exemplifies design’s role in systemic change. The initial phase focuses on securing sustainable funding, but the broader vision addresses the complex challenge of healthcare navigation. This project demonstrates how design thinking can help reshape fundamental aspects of healthcare delivery. Watch the film
Poverty Perception Initiative
A multi-phase strategy developed for a not-for-profit organisation shows how design can address complex social challenges. Beginning with targeted storytelling experiences, the program builds toward comprehensive engagement tools aimed at changing public understanding and response to poverty. View case study
Managing impact
As design’s influence grows, so does our responsibility to measure and manage its effects. This requires:
- Assessment of both intended and unintended consequences
- Ongoing dialogue with affected communities
- Adaptive systems and agile teams capable of responding to emerging impacts
- Transparent sharing of outcomes and lessons learned
These practices help ensure that our design decisions remain aligned with their intended positive impact, while allowing for course correction when necessary.
Looking Forward
The evolution of design from a tool for solving discrete problems to a force for societal impact represents a significant maturation of our field. This transformation doesn’t diminish the importance of craft and technical excellence, it places these skills within the larger context of social responsibility.
Success now requires balancing immediate objectives with longer-term societal impacts. It demands that we think critically about the consequences of our choices, while we continue to design effective solutions.
As we continue to understand design’s role in shaping society, our responsibility grows clearer: to create systems and solutions that not only work well but contribute positively to the communities they serve. This is no small challenge, but it represents an important evolution in how we approach our work and measure its success.