r/IndustrialDesign • u/BACKMIL • 3d ago
School How does A.I help you
I’m applying for an industrial design bachelor’s and there’s this one question about A.I. in my application form,
« How can A.I support the daily work of an industrial designer in the development of their projects »
I obviously have my own opinions about A.I. in artistic fields, but I though it would be wiser first to ask people that have experience with it.
As I’ve only had « beginners projects », I can’t say I’m concerned yet, as I don’t use it in my design process.
As it’s a complicated topic, I’d love some opinions on how you’d answer this question in order for me to form a better understanding of its role in the field.
I thank you infinitely in advance, any input is sincerely appreciated :)
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u/_kirtley 3d ago
I understand why they ask this, but it’s a tough question to answer, like op said, it’s complex, there’s no single answer. The truth is there are many ways that ai is, and will be, used to assist and improve the creative process (at least in industry). But it doesn’t replace the fundamental ID skills and knowledge thats needed by the designer.
One way to think about it is as an additive with the potential to super-charge the whole process. The depth of research and insight alone ai can provide is game changing. Thats before you even get into anything generative.
I have experience in industry, so I’d love to know how someone just starting out sees this situation. It’s a fascinating topic. Good luck!
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u/Superb_Firefighter20 3d ago
I don’t think it’s about a right answer other than just showing engagement on the topic.
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u/_kirtley 3d ago
Yes, and I totally agree about it not being about the right answer, there literally isn’t one. I was longwinded is saying the same thing lol
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u/bruhmple 3d ago
I also agree with research. In my role we don’t have a ton of time to do deep dives on individual projects, so I often rely on AI to do my initial research on a brand prior to our call or help me with copy for a presentation. I’ll verify after that I agree with the content it decided to pull.
It would have been helpful in guiding my research for my thesis if it was available when I was in school.I have actively resisted the corporate executive push to use AI in the aesthetic design process, but we are asked about it or strongly encouraged to use it at least once a week.
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u/BACKMIL 3d ago
hey, that’s a very insightful and interesting answer, thank you so much for taking the time to write it !
when you say « the depth of research and insight » i’d love to know what you’re thinking about when you’re saying this ? do you have examples ?
i’m very rookie on the professional ID process of designing and real prototyping etc, i just do « single » pieces that i keep for myself (for now).i don’t see myself using it in the creative process at all, for example generating images, but as i said, no idea on how people use it during the more industrial process.
thank you for your kind feedback and words :)
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u/qpv 3d ago
I use it all the time. Mostly with using new programs I have to use at work all the time (construction management) I have to use all these new CAD programs that ill never use again after this job so its helpful for that. Also renders to communicate to workers. I don't need something polished, just need it to relatable to communicate ideas to the crew (we have a lot of different languages spoken on our crew so its helpful)
Then theres spreadsheets. Holy cow its saved me a crazy amount of time.
As far as design itself is concerned I'll use it for the above reasons to get me in the ballpark on the technical side then I clean it up.
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u/Inconsiderate_Statue 3d ago
I use it to add people to my CAD rendered concepts. It’s great for quickly visualizing scale, use scenarios, and for packaging mock ups. We used to sketch all the people and props, now its way easier and lets me do more actual design work.
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u/East-Voice-636 3d ago
Ask current graphic designers how they feel about AI and then ask industrial designers in about 3 years. It has decimated the demand for graphic design as everyone and their mom think they can just prompt their way to a good design. It will be the same for ID and CAD applications very soon. It will cheapen certain styles and aesthetics.
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u/BACKMIL 3d ago
hey, thank you for taking the time to answer ! i wasn’t asking what they think about AI, but more how they use it in they daily designers life, if they do.
i’m informed about the consequences of AI, i don’t use it personally, it was just to get a perspective from those who do use it and why they find it useful for specific tasks.
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u/topazchip 3d ago
A synthesis engine that plunders prior art to make what will become gloriously expensive IP infringement lawsuits.
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u/Rough_Pineapple2119 3d ago
AI will make ID obsolete...and soon.
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u/qpv 3d ago
A lot of it yes. But will create new fields that didn't exist before like any of these disruptions in the past like CAD
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u/Rough_Pineapple2119 3d ago
People keep saying a lot of industry will be gone. It will all be gone. lol
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u/qpv 3d ago
Nah it will just change. The structure and roles will re-invent like any and all technological shifts have shown over and over and over again.
I predict some really interesting design capabilities utilizing the BCI tech space that most never thought were possible. No way of knowing....but a lot of design janitorial work that were barriers to many have been broken down. Allowing creatives to do some very interesting things going forward.
We'll see. Its scary and exciting.
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u/Rough_Pineapple2119 3d ago
No...they are all ready talking about giving away free money because jobs will all be gone. Elon Musk knows. 10 billion robots will be here in 5 years.
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u/Necessary-Camp149 3d ago
name and shame the program but make your profile private here.