Scott Berkun: Why Design is Hard

This Design Better podcast episode interviews Scott Berkun about his book "Why Design is Hard." The conversation explores the "ego trap" many designers fall into by blaming external factors for their lack of influence, advocating instead for proactive relationship-building within organizations. Berkun suggests designers leverage their visual communication skills and cultivate relationships with key individuals (e.g., engineering leads) to increase their impact. He also critiques design education for failing to adequately prepare students for workplace power dynamics and suggests incorporating practical exercises focused on cross-disciplinary collaboration and negotiation. Ultimately, the episode aims to help designers navigate organizational complexities and achieve greater influence.