We have a really exciting newsletter for you this month, which focuses on co-design and what it means to be a co-designer. You’ll get to hear from GCMA Program Manager, Professor Angelina Russo who details just how important co-design is as a research tool, as well as from two co-designers, Judith and Ken, who the GCMA are privileged to have in our community.
Personally, I’m inspired by co-design as it is an authentic and remarkable research tool. At times, it can appear simplistic, - afterall, its success relies on how well researchers understand a problem from a users’ point of view, however, it is a genius method of design and one that I’ve had the privilege to observe in our LifeLab. I’ve watched as end users, designers and stakeholders work together to improve and innovate product offerings, all by coming together and really trying to understand the core of problems. At times the impact has been immediate and the changes have been really important to end users, – it is a truly remarkable process.
I’m also interested by co-design when considering the workforce associated with an ageing world, in particular, how we support the development and delivery of more personalised, high-quality innovations now and into the future.
I would encourage people interested in using their experiences gathered throughout their lifetime to consider making co-design a new year’s resolution in 2022. Not only will you be able to lend your experiences to contribute to designing a better future for you and others, you’ll also have the wonderful opportunity to meet with other co-designers and build new connections and friendships.
We invite you to come as you are, bringing your unique life experiences to projects. We need co-designers who represent the diversity of our living environments as our communities are more diverse than ever, and we need a school of co-designers who understand the importance of diversity.
Please do join us.
Being our last newsletter for 2021, we also see this as an opportunity to reflect on all we have learned and experienced over the past year.
Our homes, for example, have become so important to us, to create safe havens, and also places of growth and connection. In-person connections and meetings will become commonplace again, however, it’s important for all of us to reflect on what we have experienced while in lockdowns and work towards manifesting positive outcomes.
We look forward to what 2022 has in store and hope you do as well.
From all of us at the GCMA, we extend our warm and best wishes to you and those closest to you this festive season. May 2022 bring meaningful opportunity and desired purpose to all of you.
Julianne Parkinson
CEO
