Designing with AI Deep Dive 2024 – Schedule
April 3-4, 2024
Virtual Event
Thank you to our sponsors
Wednesday, April 3 (Day 1)
(all times in Eastern Standard Time)
Kickoff & Ice Breaker
11:00-11:30am
Hector Rodriguez | AIxCreative
Join us in kicking off the Designing with AI Deep Dive with an interactive icebreaker activity designed to not only help us get to know each other better but also to stimulate discussions about how emerging technologies are shaping the industry. We’ll be using fun, engaging polls and quizzes to explore our collective understanding and perspectives on the shifting industry, strategies for finding new opportunities, and setting your career up for success. Get ready to share, learn, and connect with fellow designers as we set the stage for an immersive journey into the dynamic world of industrial design.
Artificially Inspired: The Controversial Muse of Modern Design
11:30am-12:10pm
Joanna Peña-Bickley | Vibes Ai
As we stand on the brink of a new era in product and industrial design, the shadow of Generative AI looms large, sparking a controversy that divides the design community. Is Generative AI the dawn of unprecedented innovation, or does it herald the end of human creativity as we know it? This keynote dares to confront the elephant in the room, challenging preconceived notions about the role of AI in design and questioning the future of human designers in an AI-dominated landscape.
Presentation topics include:
- Synergy of Human Creativity and AI: Generative AI serves as a transformative partner, enhancing human creativity. For instance, Adidas has used AI to generate innovative sneaker designs, showcasing a blend of human aesthetic judgment and AI’s vast pattern generation capabilities.
- Empowerment over Obsolescence: AI empowers designers by automating mundane tasks. Vibes Ai Example of Ear Models to craft next generation of ear buds, Autodesk’s Dreamcatcher is an example where designers input goals and constraints, and the AI proposes optimized designs, allowing creators to focus on innovation and complex problem-solving.
- Navigating Ethical and Creative Coexistence: The keynote highlights the importance of ethical guidelines in AI use. The collaboration between IBM’s Watson and Marchesa to create a dress that changed colors based on social media sentiment analysis demonstrates how AI can be used responsibly and creatively, respecting intellectual property while pushing the boundaries of design.
AI-Driven Design for Manufacturing
12:10-12:50pm
Jacek Ryń, IDSA | Jacek Ryń Studio
For now, AI is widely used in the concept stage of design, but what about further steps of the process? How can we translate visual concepts into useful data in the design process?
The presentation will describe the results of a research project in which a method was developed for identifying and interpreting stylistic features of products using artificial intelligence. Additionally, a method for parameterizing the style and implementing these parameters for 3D solids in the design process and preparing technical documentation will be discussed.
A unique element of this method is the parameterization of stylistic features to create and modify 3D models. Viewers will be familiarized with the process of using the obtained guidelines and data to develop a 3D model body built using curves and surfaces according to a specific manufacturing method.
During the presentation, a case study will be presented for a selected category of electronics products.
Key takeaways:
- Concept of product styling parameterization for use with AI and the automation of the design process.
- Using machine learning to recognize key shape elements with a popular image aggregator.
- Concepts of building niche and targeted databases of design data for further specific product development.
From Concept to Creation: How AI is Reshaping Industrial Design
12:50-1:30pm
Join us for a comprehensive view of the current state and future potential of AI in the realm of industrial design. In this talk, we’ll explore the challenges and opportunities that come from AI’s growing involvement in the design process, from copyright protection to design for manufacturing. Discover the multifaceted applications of AI in industrial design, ranging from research to practice, education, and beyond.
Attendees will get a peek into the emergence of AI-generated 3D models and their potential impact on the design industry, as AI redefines the role of design. We’ll walk through the latest advancements in AI research at the intersection of design and computer science and explore how AI is driving innovation in this space, enabling attendees to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving landscape.
By participating in this talk, attendees can expect to:
- Stay Ahead of the Curve: Gain knowledge about AI’s influence on industrial design, positioning themselves at the forefront of this transformative industry.
- Valuable Insights into Future Design Technology: Acquire valuable insights into the future of design technology, empowering them to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving landscape.
- Understanding AI’s Impact on Industrial Design: Learn how AI is shaping the industrial design field, and how to leverage AI’s potential in their own design endeavors.
Breakout A: Superhuman-Centered Design With AI
1:50-2:40pm
Greg Aper | Superunknown Studios
An exploration of the cognitive skills and advanced techniques needed to go beyond using AI for perfunctory design parlor tricks and unlock its potential to transcend the design profession. Learn the foundational psychology, processes, and methods that will supercharge your creative talents with an infusion of Design x Gen AI knowledge. A series of live demos will showcase a new paradigm in design techniques and make you rethink how you view the future of designers in the Age of AI.
This workshop is a hot-minute version of an all-day workshop which will be given at UXLx2024 in Lisbon in late May.
Optimal for:
- All professional levels of designers
- All subdomains within the design field
- Domain experts who work with designers
Workshop includes:
- Generative AI best-practices & cognition
- Building Design x Gen AI superframeworks
- Advanced Design x Gen AI techniques
- Integrating AI into your design process & business
Live demos of advanced techniques:
- Creating specialized design prompts, instructions, & GPTs
- Progressive feeding
- Crafting meaningful AI user personas & imagery
- Query quilting
Breakout B: Cultivating Belonging - The Core Four Workshop
1:50-2:40pm
Mariah Rankine-Landers | Studio Pathways LLC
Dive into “Cultivating Belonging: The Core Four Workshop” with Mariah Rankine-Landers, an expert in creating spaces of belonging. This workshop offers a deep dive into the Core Four elements: Power, Narrative, Lineage, and Embodiment. Engage in interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and thoughtful reflection.
Discover how to navigate power dynamics, see the impact of narratives on perception, honor personal and communal histories, and adopt practices that include everyone. This session is more than just educational; it’s a pathway to action. You’ll leave equipped with practical strategies to weave the Core Four into your daily interactions and professional practices, making a tangible difference in design choices and creating environments where everyone feels acknowledged and connected.
Seize this chance to lead in the realms of AI, design, and wherever you have influence. Join Mariah in transforming our design communities and practices into places of true belonging.
Key takeaways:
Participants will be equipped with practical tools and strategies to:
- Analyze and navigate power dynamics effectively.
- Grasp how narratives shape our perceptions and influence the spaces we inhabit.
- Celebrate and integrate personal and communal lineages into our work and lives.
- Develop practices that embody inclusivity, fostering environments where everyone feels valued and connected.
Unleash Your Design Potential with Generative AI
2:50-3:30pm
Juan Noguera, IDSA | Rochester Institute of Technology
In this session, attendees will embark on an exciting journey into the future of industrial design. As the realm of generative AI continues to evolve, so do the possibilities for next-generation designers.
Discover how the role of an effective designer is undergoing a profound transformation, and explore how educational programs are adapting to this groundbreaking shift. Professor Noguera will unveil how designers, both seasoned professionals and budding talents, are elevating their skills and harnessing the boundless opportunities offered by the era of Generative AI.
Through a dynamic showcase of real-world examples, compelling case studies, and immersive walkthroughs featuring outstanding professional and student work, participants will gain firsthand insights into the cutting-edge AI tools and technologies available to them today. Join us for a thrilling glimpse into the present and future of industrial design, where creativity and productivity know no bounds!
Key takeaways:
- Transformation of Design Practice: Explore how generative AI is revolutionizing the role of designers, reshaping educational curricula, and empowering both seasoned professionals and emerging talents to enhance their skills and workflows.
- Ethical Considerations and Real-world Applications: Delve into the ethical considerations and potential pitfalls of generative AI in design, while examining real-world examples and case studies that highlight its diverse opportunities and benefits.
- Cutting-edge Technologies and Future Prospects: Gain insights into the latest AI technologies available for designers, navigating the creative and productive power of these tools while envisioning the future landscape of industrial design with generative AI at its core.
Structured Reflection
3:30-3:45pm
As we wrap up day 1 of Designing with AI Deep Dive, we invite attendees to join us for a collective reflection session. This virtual activity aims to foster deeper understanding and connection among participants by reflecting on the insights gained during the event. Don’t miss this chance to consolidate your knowledge, network with fellow design enthusiasts, and strategize your next steps in your AI journey!
Day 1 Closing Remarks
3:45pm
Hector Rodriguez | AIxCreative
Thursday, April 4 (Day 2)
(all times in Eastern Standard Time)
Kickoff & Ice Breaker
11:00-11:30am
Hector Rodriguez | AIxCreative
Join us in kicking off day 2 of the Designing with AI Deep Dive with an interactive icebreaker activity designed to not only help us get to know each other better but also to stimulate discussions about how emerging technologies are shaping the industry. We’ll be using fun, engaging polls and quizzes to explore our collective understanding and perspectives on the shifting industry, strategies for finding new opportunities, and setting your career up for success. Get ready to share, learn, and connect with fellow design enthusiasts as we set the stage for an immersive journey into the dynamic world of industrial design.
Think Like an Anthropologist
11:30am-12:10pm
Vyjayanthi Vadrevu | Rasa.nyc
How can we ensure AI algorithms actually support human needs? By thinking like an anthropologist, designers ground AI-assisted design in human truths.
AI operates swiftly but lacks nuanced cultural awareness. By understanding a range of subcultural values, habits, taboos, and practices, designers can frame problems more holistically before becoming prey to the limitations of AI tools. Knowing why certain design features must be included, how they enhance the end users’ lives, and where they can fit into existing cultural habits and practices is key to countering AI biases, limitations, and hallucinations.
Designers must look into who is designing the AI tools, and which perspectives and biases are built into, or excluded from, these tools. This will help clarify when AI options enhance the design process, and when they lead the designer astray.
The ultimate goal isn’t elevating technology, but deepening our humanity.
Key takeaways:
- An anthropological framework for design considerations that supplement what AI tools can’t offer
- Turning a discerning eye towards who is creating the AI algorithms, which datasets are used to train the models, and, as a result, knowing which human perspectives are NOT being considered
- Anthropologist’s perspectives on which human phenomena AI can never replace: intuition, soul, cultural shifts, and embodied human experiences
- Rule of thumb for where AI will help, and where it will hinder, the design output as far as incorporating cultural perspectives and real human experiences to make the final product more useful and sustainable
Designing AI Magic: Elevating User Experiences
12:10-12:50pm
Ranjeet Tayi | Informatica
In an ever-evolving digital landscape, the opportunity to craft exceptional user experiences is transformative for product creators. Join an engaging conference talk that immerses you in the enterprise AI user experiences, where GPT and CoPilot emerge as invaluable allies, and generative AI introduces an elevated dimension of AI-driven user interactions. Explore the pivotal role of AI and high data in cultivating user trust and delivering impactful experiences.
In this talk, I will dive deep into the art of harnessing AI to design seamless and user-friendly experiences tailored to both technical and business users, including the intricate world of conversational design. How GPT and Language Models (LLMs) can be harnessed to create an extended user AI companion, enhancing their capabilities. Real-world examples and insightful design case studies will illuminate the towards crafting AI-driven experiences for enterprises. AI is not just a tool; it’s an indispensable creative designer seeking to elevate user interactions and empower users magically. The horizon of general promises to revolutionize UX design.
Key topics:
- The Craft of User-Friendly AI Design
- Design for Data and Large Learning Models LLM’s.
- Maximizing the Potential of Conversational Interfaces & GPT
- Empowering Users with CoPilot
- The Profound Impact of AI on User Experiences
- Case Study Examples: AI in Practical Action
- Cultivating User Trust
- Unraveling the Wonders of Generative AI
- The future of AI and Opportunities for designers
AI transcends being a mere tool; it becomes your creative companion in the design world. Discover can streamline your design process, amplify creativity, and captivate users. Join us for this enlightening where you will gain insights into the art of crafting extraordinary user experiences and harnessing AI in the digital interaction sphere.
Key takeaways:
- Understanding the Transformative Power of AI in Design: Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how AI, specifically GPT, CoPilot, and generative AI, can fundamentally transform the process of designing user experiences in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
- Practical Insights into Crafting User-Friendly AI Experiences: The talk provides practical insights into the art of harnessing AI to design seamless and user-friendly experiences for both technical and business users. Real-world examples and case studies will illuminate the strategies and principles behind successful AI-driven designs.
- Empowerment and Inspiration for Designers: Designers will leave the talk feeling empowered and inspired, viewing AI not merely as a tool but as a creative companion. The discussion aims to highlight how AI can streamline design processes, amplify creativity, and captivate users, offering a glimpse into the future of AI’s role in shaping user interactions.
Future-Proofing: The Art of Career Adaptability
12:50-1:30pm
Harini Chandrasekar | Meta
Are you tired of feeling like you need to be an expert in one specific area to succeed? It’s time to think outside the dodecahedron and reframe ambiguity to make it a strength! In this presentation, we’ll walk through how transferable skills can help you build a future-proof career that traverses multiple industries leveraging emerging technologies such as AR/VR and AI.
Get ready to dive into a dynamic exploration of the future by embracing the unknown and leaning on your differentiated skills to stay ahead of the curve. We’ll journey through the realms of industrial design, innovation, the Metaverse and AI with personal examples highlighting how these disciplines can intersect in unexpected ways.
Seize this opportunity to broaden your perspectives and welcome the unknown with open arms!
Key takeaways:
You’ll discover how to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving AI enhanced world, where the only constant is change. Expect a casual, engaging atmosphere where we’ll challenge traditional boundaries and ignite your imagination with numerous examples. This isn’t just about surviving the future – it’s about shaping it. So, buckle up and prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about your skill set. It’s time to future-proof your career and create the path you never knew you had!
Breakout A: Future-Proofing Design Ops in the Age of AI
1:50-2:40pm
Veronica Lin | PepsiCo Design & Innovation Center
Michael Prince | Beyond Design
Ray Zavesky | Signify
This thought-provoking session will shed light on the profound impact of rapid industry changes on leaders and operations. Attendees can expect to gain insights into the challenges faced by industry leaders as they navigate the adoption of new tools, the restructuring of teams, and the pivotal task of effectively conveying the value of design to organizational leadership.
The panelists, consisting of seasoned professionals and experts in the field, will explore strategies for integrating AI seamlessly into design operations while addressing the need to right-size teams for optimal efficiency. Moreover, the discussion will highlight the evolving role of AI in industrial design and its implications for the future of the industry.
You’ll get the chance to ask questions from our panel of design leaders, whose experience ranges from consultancies to corporations and beyond, to understand how industry leaders are responding to the new landscape in design.
Key takeaways:
- Value of Design + AI: Panelists will share the complexities and pain points introduced by the adoption of new AI technologies – as well as discussing their experiences in how to convey the value of design + AI to organizational leadership
- Skill Development: Attendees will better understand how design leaders today are preparing their teams with the skills they need to navigate AI tools and technologies, as well as the impact of these new tools on larger organizational workflows.
- Risk Management: This conversation will highlight potential risks associated with AI implementation, including considerations ranging from ethics to intellectual property. Responsible and effective AI implementation is within reach!
Breakout B: Designing Together with Vizcom
1:50-2:40pm
Jordan Taylor, IDSA | Vizcom
This session offers a thought-provoking exploration into the synergistic relationship between artificial intelligence and modern design practices. This session delves into how Vizcom is not just a tool, but a collaborative partner in the creative process, reshaping the way designers approach and execute their ideas.
Key takeaways:
Understanding its role not just as a tool, but as a collaborator that enhances creativity and innovation. They will gain insights into the latest AI technologies relevant to design, learning practical ways to apply these in their projects. The session will also highlight how AI can help in overcoming common design challenges, foster efficiency, and open new possibilities for creative expression.
Ethics in AI
2:50-3:30pm
Abigale Stangl | Georgia Tech School of Industrial Design
Jonathan Thai, IDSA | Hatch Duo
Noam Shentov | Queen Mary Intellectual Property Research Institute
Per Magnus Skold, IDSA | Mako Design + Invent
As the boundaries between human and machine creativity blur, the ethical considerations become increasingly critical. Join our panel of designers and AI experts as we explore how designers must confront this changing landscape. From industry practitioners to software specialists and educators, this diverse panel will challenge the audience to contemplate the implications of AI’s role in shaping the future of industrial design, from regulation to IP protection and beyond.
This discussion will center on the impact of AI on human creativity and decision-making in design, exploring the potential social, industrial, and environmental ramifications of AI-integrated design solutions, raising thought-provoking questions about accountability, bias, and impact on the workforce. An interactive Q&A session with the panelists offers attendees the chance to delve deeper into the nuances of ethics in ID.
Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed and proactive in navigating the landscape of AI in industrial design. Engage in meaningful discussions and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to navigate the ethical challenges posed by AI, ensuring responsible and forward-thinking practices in industrial design.
Key takeaways:
- Ethical Implications of AI in Industrial Design: You will gain insights into the ethical considerations and implications of integrating AI into the field of industrial design, including discussions on accountability, bias, and the impact on the workforce.
- Education & Responsibility: Attendees will better understand the significance of educating designers about ethical AI/ML applications and the responsibility of the private sector in using AI tools in a responsible and safe manner – both at university and through continuing education.
- Regulatory & IP Landscape: The panel will explore the range of regulatory implications of AI, as well as the potential impact of this new technology on intellectual property protection. Designers will learn how to protect their creativity while fully exploring everything AI has to offer.
Structured Reflection
3:30-3:45pm
As we wrap up day 2 of Designing with AI Deep Dive, we invite attendees to join us for a collective reflection session. This virtual activity aims to foster deeper understanding and connection among participants by reflecting on the insights gained during the event. Don’t miss this chance to consolidate your knowledge, network with fellow design enthusiasts, and strategize your next steps in your AI journey!
Closing Remarks
3:45pm
Hector Rodriguez | AIxCreative