Future of Design in India

Design is everywhere, quietly influencing our daily choices and experiences. It’s in the metro stations we pass through, the offices we work in, and the museums we visit. Its impact is often so seamlessly blended into our lives that we hardly notice it, yet it’s always there. Design’s real power lies in enhancing and transforming our experiences, be it through technological innovation or creative individuality. Looking ahead, India’s design scene is transforming rapidly. With new and innovative design courses emerging and a growing demand for skilled professionals, the future of design in India looks bright and full of opportunities. In this evolving landscape, design is more than just aesthetics or practicality; it’s about creating experiences and a future driven by creativity and innovation. 

Evolution of Design in India  

The evolution of design in India is a fascinating journey marked by a blend of tradition and innovation. From the intricate designs of ancient architecture to the modern aesthetics of contemporary products, Indian design has a rich heritage. Over the years, the design landscape in India has witnessed a significant shift with advancements in technology, globalisation, and a growing appreciation for design across various industries. 

The establishment of top-notch design schools and the introduction of cutting-edge BDes courses have played a crucial role in shaping the design narrative in the country. Design thinking is no longer confined to niche sectors; it has become an integral part of businesses and industries, driving innovation and user-centric solutions.

The establishment of premier design schools and the introduction of innovative Bachelor of Design (BDes) courses have been pivotal in reshaping the country’s design narrative. Design thinking, once a concept limited to specific sectors, has now become a fundamental aspect of businesses and industries across the board. It’s steering the way towards innovation and user-centric solutions, marking a new era in which design is not just an aesthetic choice but a vital component of practical problem-solving and strategic planning. 

Why Choose BDes?   

Bachelor of Design (BDes) programs have become increasingly popular among aspiring designers, and for good reason. These programs offer a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to design education, providing students with a solid foundation in various design principles and techniques. BDes programs like the one offered by the School of Design at Shoolini University are designed to nurture creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. 

Choosing BDes opens a world of possibilities, allowing students to specialise in areas such as graphic design, industrial design, fashion design, and more. The emphasis on practical learning and industry exposure makes BDes a preferred choice for those who aspire to embark on a fulfilling career in the field of design. 

Career Scope with BDes Degree  

The career scope with a B Design degree extends beyond traditional design roles. BDes graduates are well-equipped to venture into roles such as design consultants, design managers, and design researchers. The interdisciplinary nature of BDes programs ensures that graduates possess a diverse skill set, making them valuable assets in a variety of industries.  

In India, the career scope for BDes graduates is expanding rapidly, driven by the increasing recognition of design’s strategic importance. The government’s initiatives to promote design thinking and innovation, combined with a growing awareness among businesses about the impact of design on brand value, contribute to the rising demand for skilled designers.  

Top Careers in BDes  

A B Design degree opens the door to a plethora of exciting career options. Some of the top careers in BDes include:  

• Graphic Designer: Creating visual content for print and digital media 
• Industrial Designer: Designing products, systems, and environments 
• Fashion Designer: Crafting clothing, accessories, and footwear 
• UX/UI Designer: Enhancing user experiences and interfaces 
• Interior Designer: Planning and creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces 

Top Recruiters for B Design Graduates 

The demand for BDes graduates has attracted the attention of renowned companies and organisations across industries. Some of the top recruiters for BDes graduates include: 

• Tech Giants: Companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft value the contribution of UX/UI designers in creating user-friendly digital interfaces.  
• Fashion Houses: Leading fashion brands such as Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi, and FabIndia actively seek talented fashion designers for their design teams.  
• Automotive Industry: Automobile companies like Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra hire industrial designers to shape the aesthetics of their vehicles.  
• Advertising Agencies: Creative agencies like Ogilvy, Wieden+Kennedy, and DDB Mudra scout for graphic designers and art directors to enhance their campaigns.  
• E-commerce Platforms: Companies like Amazon and Flipkart rely on UX/UI designers to optimise the online shopping experience for their users.  

Did you Know? In India, the design industry is experiencing remarkable growth, expanding at an annual rate of 25% across various disciplines, according to Google. However, the current demand for designers in the country far surpasses the number of qualified professionals. While India boasts a proud crafts heritage, the need for approximately 62,000 designers is met by only around 7,000 qualified individuals. This stark reality presents both a challenge and an opportunity for design institutes and educational institutions specialising in design courses. 

Design institutes and universities, like Shoolini University’s School of Design, are key to closing the gap between traditional and modern design. They need to stay updated with new technologies and trends to ensure their courses prepare students for the future. At Shoolini University, the focus is on empowering aspiring designers. The School provides them with platforms to express their creativity and innovation, helping shape the next generation of design professionals ready for a rapidly evolving industry. 

Shoolini University’s School of Design: Nurturing Innovation through Nature-Inspired Design 

Nature has always been a source of inspiration and innovation, offering profound insights that have shaped civilisations throughout history. Harnessing the principles of natural phenomena, the Science of Biomimicry has intrigued inventors and designers since the mid-1970s. Shoolini University, nestled in the lap of nature, embraces this philosophy through its School of Design (SOD), fostering a nature-centric design program coupled with interdisciplinary research and innovation-driven applied fields. 

Program Offered  

The Bachelor of Design (BDes) is a four-year course at Shoolini University, open to students who’ve completed 10+2 in any stream with at least 55% marks. This program introduces students to the world of design, mixing creative thinking with practical skills for problem-solving. It’s a great way for students to start their journey in design, giving them both the knowledge and hands-on experience they need for a career in this field. 

Nature-Centric Design Philosophy  

Nestled amidst rich biodiversity, Shoolini University offers an ideal environment for its School of Design to thrive. Nature serves as a source of inspiration and a foundation for creating innovative design solutions. The university capitalises on its close relationship with nature, weaving nature-centric principles into its design programs. 

The School of Design transcends traditional design education boundaries through its highly interdisciplinary approach. Design as a profession spans a wide array of subjects. These include Philosophy, Psychology, Sociology, Visual Art & Aesthetics, Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Ergonomics, Physiology, and cutting-edge technologies like Extended Reality (XR), Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR). This diverse curriculum reflects the multifaceted nature of design and its application in the real world, preparing students for a future where design transcends conventional limits. 

Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation  

In alignment with the global trend of interdisciplinary research, the School of Design collaborates with various schools within Shoolini University. This collaboration establishes the School of Design as a hub of research and innovation, fostering an environment where ideas are transformed into tangible products for the betterment of humanity.  

The transdisciplinary and nature-centric approach to design is a distinguishing feature of the Tagore School of Design at Shoolini University. By integrating diverse fields of study, the school prepares its students to navigate the complex challenges of the 21st century, where innovative, nature-based problem-solving solutions are highly valued. 

Conclusion 

Shoolini University’s School of Design stands at the forefront of revolutionizing design education in India. By fusing a nature-centric design philosophy with a comprehensive, interdisciplinary curriculum, the School is setting new standards in design education. Courses like the Bachelor of Design (BDes) not only provide students with a solid foundation in various design principles but also encourage them to think creatively and solve problems practically. 

Under the leadership of Prof Amit Ray, the Tagore School of Design at Shoolini University is not just educating students; it’s preparing future leaders in design. The School’s unique approach, combining nature-inspired innovation with a wide range of academic disciplines, positions its graduates to excel in a world increasingly reliant on holistic, innovative design solutions. As India’s design industry continues to grow, Shoolini University’s School of Design is poised to be a key contributor, shaping the future of design in India and beyond.