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Design Observer has been hosting important conversations on design and the world around us since 2003. You are our people. This is your news.

Our newsletters are the best way to take us with you as you travel your world. Opening one is like pulling up a seat to the cool (and kind) kids’ table from your phone. (Or your browser, since a lot of you read our newsletters on your desktop, which is sort of nice.)

The Observatory

Come for the inspiration, stay for the joy. Curated by Design Observer editors and contributors for our community of more than 20,000 makers, thinkers, leaders, and wayfinders, this twice-monthly roundup features essays, news, opinion, global insights, and pithy observations on design and life. It’s guaranteed to stir the creative spirit.

Recent pieces include reflections on redesigning as a form of storytelling in “Parable of the Redesigner” and a call for transformation in design education in “Design is at a Turning Point”. These are just a taste of what you’ll find in your inbox.

Sign up for The Observatory here
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The Observatory Subscription

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The Design of Business with Ellen McGirt

Redesign your approach to leadership and innovation with The Design of Business (formerly Equity Observer), a twice-weekly newsletter from award-winning journalist Ellen McGirt.

Read more about it.

What you’ll get:

  • Fresh insights on workplace transformation for a diverse and evolving world
  • Critical advice from leaders and experts driving equity, innovation, and sustainability
  • AI trends decoded to manage risks and seize opportunities
  • Essential leadership skills to thrive in today’s fast-paced environment
  • Proven strategies for building inclusive and responsive cultures

Real people, real stories. Join a community that reimagines business for a better future. Be the first to know how leaders are transforming challenges into opportunities.

🖋 Sign up now to receive commentary, strategies, and thought leadership straight to your inbox.

To get a sense, check out the Design Observer Twenty: The Redesigners, a now annual list of remarkable people, projects, and big ideas solving an urgent social need.

The Design of Business with Ellen McGirt Subscription

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Observed

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Latest Podcasts

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Ellen McGirt

Compassionate Design, Career Advice and Leaving 18F with Designer Ethan Marcotte

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Ellen McGirt

Love Letter to a Garden and 20 years of Design Matters with Debbie Millman

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Ellen McGirt

Redesigning the Spice Trade: Talking Turmeric and Tariffs with Diaspora Co.’s Sana Javeri Kadri

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Alexis Haut

It’s Not Easy Bein’ Green: ‘Wicked’ spells for struggle and solidarity