These days I have been thinking about how to be revamp my blog for next year. I have also been taking an increasing and active interest in design in the companies that I am involved with. From a business perspective, a well designed product is always talked about a lot more, shared among friends, and has a unique advantage over competitors who are not thinking ahead of the curve. This is a strategy that Apple has used most effectively, also making it into one of their strongest competitive advantages.

Startups usually do not have access to the best designers available to create their user interfaces, web designs, packaging materials etc. However, this should not be the reason to put something out there, without paying adequate attention to detail. The web is full of examples of companies who have put serious thought into their design processes:

1. Apple (iMac & iPhone)
2. Tiffany
3. Mint
4. 37Signals
5. Audi
6. Action Method
7. Wufoo
8. Aeron Chairs
9. Samsung
10. Bang & Olufsen

These are just some examples that come to mind. Each one of them has used their design or interface, to not just create a strong brand for themselves, they have also created emotional bonds that are very difficult to displace. For example Tiffany!

In the final analysis, great design should be a critical component that someone on your team is always thinking about. It could start from simpler things such as your logo, name card design, stationary, website etc. Use that to fuel greater design inspiration into other parts of your business, thereby giving yourself a greater edge.

I am interested to know if you have come across a really well designed personal blog lately? If so, please send me the link. Thank you.