How Designers Destroyed the World by Mike Monteiro— An AEA Video

Designers have a responsibility, not only to themselves and to their clients, but also to the wider world. We are designers because we love to create, but creation without responsibility breeds destruction. Every day, designers all over the world work on projects without giving any thought or consideration to the impact that work has on the world around them. This needs to change.

In this bluntly honest talk, captured live at An Event Apart Orlando Special Edition, Mike Monteiro invites you to consider your responsibilities as a designer, and embrace your role as gatekeeper. You'll learn how to increase your influence and be moved to use your powers for good. This presentation was named 2014 Talk of the Year by net magazine.

Mike Monteiro is the co-founder and design director of Mule Design, an interactive design studio whose work has been called “delightfully hostile” by the New Yorker. He prefers elegant, simple sites with clear language that serve a real need. He prefers that designers have strong spines. Recent clients include The National Audubon Society, Seattle Times, Open Society Foundations, and ProPublica.

Mike writes and speaks frequently about the craft and business of design. In early 2011, he gave a CreativeMornings talk entitled “F— You, Pay Me” that uplifted the downtrodden the world over, and got designers to start minding their business.

Mike has written two books, both published by A Book Apart. His first book, Design Is a Job, published in 2012, about handling yourself professionally as a designer, is being incorporated as a textbook in design programs across the country. His second book, You're My Favorite Client, looks at the client/designer relationship from the client's side, and deals with how to find the right designer, better work with them, and manage their moody selves. Both are delightful and fun to read.

Catch Mike's new presentation, “13 Ways Designers Screw Up Client Presentations,” at An Event Apart Seattle, An Event Apart San Diego, and An Event Apart Chicago this year. And for the latest on An Event Apart, follow us on Twitter, Google+, or Facebook. And for the latest web design news plus special offers, discounts, and more, subscribe to our mailing list.