Tim Sharpe on how design can be a strategic advantage for non-design companies.

The Design Journeys Podcast

Episode 11 of The Design Journeys Podcast hosted by Chris Whyte. New episodes every other Wednesday!

In this episode of the Design Journeys podcast, host Chris Whyte interviews Tim Sharpe, co-founder of Better Normal, a consultancy focused on helping non-designers adopt a designer's mindset.

Tim shares his career journey, which includes working in various countries and industries, such as consumer electronics, e-bikes, and medical devices. He emphasizes the importance of international experience in shaping his success.

Tim also discusses how design can become a strategic advantage for non-design companies and shares insights on reframing problems, involving end-users, and staying curious.

In this conversation, Tim and Chris discuss the importance of networking and building connections in the design industry. They emphasize the value of being curious, asking questions, and having broad interests.

Tim shares his experience working on a project to develop equipment for cancer treatment and highlights the importance of teamwork and making choices that contribute to the greater good.

They also discuss tips for creating effective CVs and portfolios, including showcasing problem-solving skills through sketches.

Tim recommends the books 'Loonshots' and 'Ruined by Design' as valuable resources for designers.

Takeaways

• International experience can greatly contribute to career success in the design industry.
• Design can be a strategic advantage for non-design companies.
• Reframing problems and involving end-users are essential in finding effective solutions.
• Curiosity and asking questions are key traits for designers. Networking and building connections is crucial in the design industry. Be curious, ask questions, and show genuine interest in others.
• Having broad interests and diverse experiences can lead to more meaningful connections and collaborations.
• Teamwork is essential in design projects. Embrace diversity and different skill sets to create innovative solutions.
• Make choices that contribute to the greater good and have a positive impact on the world.
• When creating CVs and portfolios, focus on quality over quantity. Showcase problem-solving skills and thought processes through sketches.
• Recommended books for designers: 'Loonshots' and 'Ruined by Design'.

Connect with Tim Sharpe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharpetim/

Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about Kodu Recruitment: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://teamkodu.com/⁠