“…design to expand the capabilities of people to lead the kind of lives they value. And to do it in a sustainable way.” (Manzini, 2015, p.415 )

This quote by Manzini illustrates the role design, in my opinion, should play in the future of our society. As the future calls for both social and ecological sustainability to tackle various complex ‘wicked problems’, like the climate crisis. Designers can both initiate changes and be the facilitators of the inter- and intrapersonal reflections and connections needed to create systemic change.

To address these ‘wicked problems’, as first defined by Rittel & Webber (1973) and later linked to design thinking by Buchanan (1992), designers must actively involve users at different levels. Through practices like co-creation, they can inspire and enable others to reflect, rethink, and ultimately change their practices. Through approaches like design-fiction and speculation, they can make alternatives experiential, engaging and empowering stakeholders while connecting them in ways that provoke critical reflection and transformation.

These wicked problems often evolve quickly and unexpectedly, thus requiring ways of working that reflect and adapt to these changes. Designers are well placed to do this by embracing the open-endedness often inherent to design processes and bringing this mindset to others. Rather than seeking fixed solutions, we should aim for continuous, adaptive, and situated resolutions that are directed at and stem from both individual changes and collaborations. Continuous and critical reflection are crucial for the successful implementation of this approach.

People’s faith in the intentions and responsible actions of big tech and governments related to communication, expression, and privacy is deteriorating (Amnesty International Netherlands, 2022; Calvin et al., 2025; Kharpal, 2021; Naji Bazzi, 2025; Sawers, 2016, 2025). I believe that too much emphasis is placed on technological innovation, where I think social innovation holds far greater value when addressing wicked problems like the climate crisis.

For this way of working, the sharing of practices and insights across projects and disciplines is crucial. Thus, prioritising documentation and sharing, to facilitate others to continue the iterative process.

To live up to this vision, designers should: embrace open-endedness, develop their critical eye, not be afraid to provoke, focus on creatively activating and involving stakeholders, and facilitate and inspire others to build on their work.