How to Design for Society: Perspectives on Empathy in the Design and Make Process
Understanding your customer’s needs is critical for effective design. That makes empathy essential. Mei-yen Shipek and Sophia Zelov of Autodesk explore three examples of improving design with empathy.
Tools and technology continue to advance, but nothing replaces empathy when it comes to effective design. The ability to see with another’s eyes, to put yourself in their shoes, and understand the feelings of another person or group of people—these are key to designing in a way that serves their needs. Mei-yen Shipek and Sophia Zelov of the Autodesk Technology Centers (ATC) share three projects that show empathy in action and the positive impact it can have on the world.
About the speakers
Mei-yen Shipek is the global communications lead for the Autodesk Technology Centers. She leads her team in telling the stories of the industry-based, startup, and academic residents who are realizing the future of manufacturing and industrialized construction at the technology centers. For over 15 years, Mei-yen has worked in the design, fabrication, and manufacturing fields, and is experienced in CNC/CAM, 3D printing, metal work, and woodworking. She is the co-founder of Workbench Alliance, an organization dedicated to raising the visibility of women and gender nonconforming folks working at the intersection of craft, technology, and design.
Sophia Zelov is the industry engagement manager for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction within the Autodesk Technology Centers, where she connects industry, academic, and entrepreneurial teams to the Technology Centers to explore ways to advance the building industry. Previously, she was an associate at Machado Silvetti, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Virginia Tech University.
Related learning
Want to learn more about empathy in the AEC industry? Check out these AU classes:
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