The Importance of Responsive Design in Times of Crisis

Abstract

In the span of a year, the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered our way of life. Reshaping our public spaces and daily routines, as well as the ways we communicate and connect with others, the crisis has also demonstrated design’s unique ability, as an industry, practice and product, to adapt and respond even in the most trying of times.The World Design Organization (WDO)® has watched with great pride as designers around the world, both within our community and outside of it, have stepped up to offer their skills and resources to develop impactful solutions. There have been a multitude of design innovations aimed at lessening the spread of COVID-19, easing the social and economic burden and safeguarding public health and safety. From tangible product innovations like Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), pop-up isolation units, ventilators and hands-free door openers to harnessing communication design to encourage behavioural changes.