Response to Chipchase’s calibrating your cultural compass

Chipchase shared the importance of understanding the background of one’s target audience. Often, we neglect the basis and intent of designing. Products are usually designed for people yet some designers fail to incorporate thoughtfulness to their work. A good design naturally arises from observations and research of the target group. Customising a design that is convenient and suits the need of the people.

Culture is a major considering factor to great design. Having been to Japan and Korea this summer, I’ve realised the stark difference in their cultures. Take dining in Japan, for example. Meals are usually in the form of individual sets where sharing almost seems to be disrespectful towards the chefs.

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Photo from Pinterest

However, in Korea, friends are commonly seen sharing a huge portion of food coming from a single pan. In which not sharing is a selfish act.

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Photo from Chefsteps

Questions:

  1. How large should the database be to make a non-bias analysis?
  2. With the multicultural society we live in, how can one strike a balance between satisfying the masses and creating a design that suits the majority?