The 8th International Design Conference (IDC) “Design in Context” will start on November 8, 2022, along with Dubai Design Week. Context is one of the most critical aspects of design, referring to the circumstances, background, or environment in which a person, thing, or idea exists or occurs.

Context is the starting point to inform possible outcomes and situations in relation to a design brief. Within a context, many different elements might be explored before the design can take place. Context gives meaning to what we see.

Determining that a design’s context is correct, appropriate and beneficial remains a constant hurdle when attempting to ensure creative work achieves its full potential and communicates effectively with audiences.

Furthermore, context of ‘use’ can determine the purpose, design and function of a design. Context grounds ideas in reality and makes seemingly nebulous problems tangible. Context makes ideas less confusing and allows people to understand where products and services fit into the world.

A good design considers the context of the product, audience and business. Designers need to be focused on creating designs that consider the context of how and where they will be used.

AUE/ CDES welcomes international designers, educators, students along with representatives of the design community and industry in UAE to explore design in context.