Design plays a pivotal role in globalization, accelerating cultural integration and economic growth and driving progress across sectors. The 20th century was characterized by industrialization, where design primarily supported mass production. However, the 21st century brings complex challenges such as climate change, sustainable urbanization, industrial innovation, and health and wellness. Designers today must adopt a broader perspective to address these issues.

In his keynote at the 2024 Hebei International Industrial Design Week, Vyas outlined design’s evolution through four stages:

• 1.0 Era: Merging craftsmanship and mechanization introduced the field of industrial design.

• 2.0 Era: The rise of electronics shifted design toward smart, user-centered products.

• 3.0 Era: Digital and smart technologies brought sustainability into focus, emphasizing eco-friendly design.

• 4.0 Era: The current phase involves IoT and smart manufacturing, requiring innovative, cross-disciplinary approaches to meet consumer demands while addressing ecological resilience and resource use.

Vyas stressed that designers must prioritize sustainability, creating designs that bolster environmental resilience and social adaptability.

Challenges of Urbanization
Urbanization fosters economic growth but introduces issues like resource shortages and housing pressure. Vyas urged designers to craft sustainable, livable cities by embracing social media and fostering public engagement, thus enhancing community collaboration.

Challenges of Globalization
Globalization drives economic and cultural exchange but also presents issues like resource disparity and technological imbalance. Vyas called on designers to address these disparities by promoting resource access, technology, and education to support global progress.

Healthcare Challenges
Urbanization strains healthcare resources, concentrating them in large cities and leaving smaller communities underserved. Vyas noted that even countries with developed healthcare systems face growing demands from aging populations and chronic illnesses. Designers should innovate in healthcare solutions, from product design to service delivery, to meet evolving health needs.

Values for 21st Century Design
Vyas highlighted three key values:

1. Sustainability: Designers should ensure that creations not only meet current needs but also support long-term environmental goals. Integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern design helps preserve cultural heritage.

2. Human-Centered Design: Placing people at the center of design improves quality of life by addressing users’ behaviors, needs, and comfort. Functionality and ease of use are essential.

3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Design requires a multidisciplinary approach, integrating culture, technology, and aesthetics. This can be supported by flexible education systems that cultivate creativity, technical skill, and collaborative ability.

   
   

Vyas's speech underscored design as a tool for innovation and social progress, calling on designers to adapt to new technologies and sustainability practices to better meet societal needs.