Part 1 Examples and Tools

Examples of how architects are refocusing disruption within their practices will be outlined in subsequent parts. Regarding designers and start-ups, as of 2013 there is a unique program that has been developed through a venture-funded source called the Designer Fund, which focuses on rectifying the fact that not enough designers are taking the path of entrepreneurship and creating positive social impact at scale with technology:

In our research we’ve found systemic issues including a lack of entrepreneurial design education, successful peers who serve as role models and capital resources. We also believe that companies can be more successful if design, engineering and business talent collaborate from the beginning. Teams with a critical mass of these skills can ship higher quality products, craft better user experiences and communicate a brand that resonates more with consumers. Designers who are part of the founding team can make the most impact by championing the user experience, building an exceptional design team and sustaining a culture of design.

Who we are looking for

Designers whose success in business generates meaningful impact (positive social impact at scale), particularly through the use of new IT experiences. Every six months we look to invest in a balanced mix of designers across three stages: prototype, alpha and beta. We’re focusing on designer founders primarily based in Silicon Valley but we’re open to those located in other major cities and startup hubs.

(https://designerfund.com/)