As part of the Induction and Orientation Programme of the 10th Batch of the Institute of Design, Nirma University, Ms. Bhakti Dudhara, Founder and Chief Designer and Mr. Varun Vyas, Lead Design Consultant of Aubergine Solutions, Ahmedabad were invited on 16 July 2026. The theme of the talk was “Design is Invisible”.
The highly interactive and conversational session, offered students valuable insights into the evolving landscape of design, particularly in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The speakers encouraged students to view design as a purposeful process driven by research, critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving. Explaining the true essence of Design, she compared the design process to an iceberg-while the final output is visible to everyone, the larger and more significant part lies beneath the surface, comprising extensive research, ideation, experimentation and thoughtful decision-making.
Speaking on the role of AI in design, she acknowledged that AI tools and well-crafted prompts can significantly reduce working time and improve efficiency. However, she emphasised that AI can never replace a designer’s thinking process-original ideas, creativity, empathy, and ability to solve real-world problems. Quoting a powerful principle, she remarked, “Build the right thing and build the thing right”, highlighting that meaningful design begins with identifying and addressing the right problem.
Mr. Varun stressed that one of the most important skills a designer should develop is the ability to ask thoughtful questions. Curiosity, questioning assumptions, understanding the actual problem and needs of various stakeholders, are essential qualities that lead to impactful design solutions. He emphasised that every successful design is rooted in an understanding of user needs and human psychology. To continuously enhance one’s capabilities, the experts advised them to become multidisciplinary professionals. They reminded students that in the Age of AI- the Age of Speed, designers may need to have a mindset shift – become a capable builder, incorporating design, technological and entrepreneurial skills.
The session enthused an engaging question-and-answer interaction, where students enthusiastically raised practical questions about design education, industry expectations and career opportunities.