Evolving Roles and Practices in Product Design: A Comprehensive Analysis

This paper explores the evolving definitions and roles of product designers, a term with diverse interpretations in the academic and industrial spheres. Amidst the confusion surrounding the profession's responsibilities, this study seeks to clarify the roles and challenges facing aspiring designers, educators, and employers. The research combines a literature review with primary research, including surveys and interviews with key industry stakeholders, to investigate the changing landscape of product design. The findings reveal the multifaceted nature of the field, highlighting key roles, essential competencies, and the shift towards more sustainable and socially responsible design practices. The study proposes "object design executive" as a new title to better reflect the diverse responsibilities of product designers in shaping the future.