Case knowledge from Apple designers is a scarce resource

During my tenure at Apple, I came to realize that our responsibility as designers extended far beyond crafting innovative products. It was about enriching the design ecosystem with the wealth of knowledge we had gathered over the years. And while we were engrossed in creating and refining, the sharing of this gathered wisdom was often overlooked. The truth is, case knowledge from Apple designers is a scarce resource. It’s not that we aren’t willing to share; it’s that amidst the whirlwind of deadlines, launches, and innovations, taking time out to document and share our learnings isn’t always feasible.

However, as years passed and the impact of our designs became even more pronounced, I recognized the immense value in making our case knowledge available. Not for accolades or recognition but as a means to empower the next generation of designers. Most Apple designers, immersed in their craft and the fast-paced world of tech, might not always pause to share insights. But that doesn’t diminish its importance.

Our design journey at Apple, filled with both remarkable successes and humbling challenges, can serve as a beacon for aspiring designers. These insights into our thought processes, decision-making, and problem-solving methods are invaluable. It provides a rare glimpse into the workings of one of the world’s most secretive design labs and offers budding designers tangible examples to learn from.

This knowledge, however, isn’t just about techniques or design principles. It’s about the ethos of Apple, the dedication to lived experience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. It’s about understanding that design isn’t just about aesthetics but about curating holistic experiences that resonate with people. By sharing case knowledge, I hope to inspire, guide, and kindle the same passion in future designers that burns brightly within me. The design landscape is ever-evolving, and by ensuring that the knowledge from Apple’s hallowed halls with my retrospectives reaches the wider community, I’m nurturing not just future Apple designers, but the future of design itself.