35 Examples of a Design Function

John Spacey, September 14, 2022

A design function is what a design does. This is defined in the functional requirements for a design. Function is an important driver of design as captured by design mantras such as form follows function. Delivering a design that doesn't achieve function well is a primary type of design failure. The following are illustrative examples of a function.

Accessibility An elevator that is usable for as many people as possible including people with disabilities.	Aesthetics A landscape design that is beautiful.
Ambiance An interior design that feels pleasant.	Athletics Running shoes that are bouncy so as to make running more efficient and lower impact.
Brand Image A magazine ad that communicates a story about a brand.	Brand Recognition A poster designed to build recognition of a brand.
Celebration A holiday decoration that captures the spirit and culture of a holiday.	Comfort A chair that is comfortable.
Compliance A package design that complies with the law.	Conversions A mobile app screen that achieves conversions.
Countersignaling A design that communicates confidence by not signaling. For example, a sign for a cafe that doesn't try to grab attention.	Customer Experience Elements of the customer experience such as a packaging design that is pleasing to open.
Efficiency Efficiency such as a vehicle that must have an aerodynamic form.	Entertainment An environment such as a theme park attraction that is meant to entertain.
Epic Experience A snowboard allows riders to traverse snowy mountain environments at speed.	Housing The architecture and interior design of a home provide a living environment.
Identity A t-shirt that followers of a subculture identify with.	Informing Communicating information such as a government pamphlet about some serious issue.
Modesty Clothing that covers the body.	Ordering A mobile app that allows you to order products.
Ownership The visual design of a snowboard creates a sense of ownership and identification with the product.	Processes A design that executes a process such as a workflow screen that allows a worker to complete a process step.
Productivity A tool that people use to generate value.	Protection Shoes that protect the feet.
Risk Reduction A design that reduces or mitigates a risk such as a coaster that protects tables.	Safety Goggles that protect the eyes.
Sales A book cover sells a book.	Security A secure urban design with vehicle barriers to protect pedestrians.
Signaling A design that communicates something such as virtue.	Social Status Fashion that communicates social status such as wealth, intelligence or youth.
Storage A trash bin stores garbage.	Style A design that communicates a style such as socks that are recognizably the work of a particular fashion designer.
Tradition A craft with a traditional design such that it is the 'real' thing.	Transport A package design that protects a product in transport.
Warmth Clothing keeps people warm.