Developing design systems for sustainability

The purpose of this chapter is threefold: first, to introduce the worldviews of modern designers; second, to discuss the issues of design science in the context of sustainability; and third, to propose a design system blueprint for responsible change. On the path to creating design systems for sustainability, designers need to better understand critical aspects of a sustainable design problem space. To ensure the quality of the design systems for sustainability, a modern design science framework is needed. The framework could be used as a guide in developing a complex operations network but most importantly, it emphasizes the need to address the context, interventions, mechanisms, outputs, and outcomes around sustainable development. To ensure the effectiveness of implementation, a unique design system blueprint is also established. Designers and project managers should focus their attention and resources on these critical areas to achieve and sustain organizational overall success in terms of economic development, environmental protection, and social equity.