Maximilian Fleitmann, an Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) member based in Berlin, Germany, is the managing partner of Wizard Ventures and co-founder of Magic Design, a monthly design subscription that helps startups and small to medium-sized businesses with all their graphic design needs. We asked Max which design trends will get your brand noticed. Here's what he shared:
In our ever-changing world, businesses must adapt quickly, especially when it comes to brand design. Yes, design fatigue is a thing. It's up to you as the leader to ensure that your company creates a unique and memorable customer experience, which requires creating and consistently updating numerous visual assets. Companies that prioritize design as an integral part of their DNA and remain up-to-date on the latest trends outshine competitors and attract new customers.
These are the top design trends that your business can utilize to its advantage right now:
1. Asymmetrical Layouts
Increasingly more brands are using asymmetrical layouts instead of traditional grid-based structures. The advantages are clear: Such configurations offer a unique, eye-catching design that conveys a sense of creativity and individuality.
Do be aware of the challenges with asymmetric layouts. Use them with care since there is a risk that the design may feel chaotic or difficult to navigate.
2. AI-Generated Design Assets
As you scroll through your newsfeed, it's hard to dodge AI headlines. AI will change the creative industry forever, and I expect this year to mark a significant step forward in the automated creation of images, designs, and even full user interfaces.
If the technology delivers what it promises, AI-generated designs will help businesses scale their graphic design more efficiently and consistently.
3. Bold Typography
There's never been a better time for your company to use bold typography to make a statement. Businesses with a strong brand identity stand out, and bold typography can help solidify your visual hierarchy. Furthermore, it lends a sense of confidence and authority--a benefit to most brands.
4. Custom Illustrations
Why not make your brand more recognizable and set your business apart by using custom illustrations? As long as they align with your other design assets and company values, you can use custom illustrations across all marketing materials--including websites, social media, and even packaging. I expect more brands to leverage the power of custom illustrations to tell their story and create a cohesive visual identity.
5. Dark Mode
There has been a steady rise in dark mode design over the last few years, and it's not going away anytime soon. They are especially attractive to younger consumers, who seem to have an affinity toward a dark format's elegance, sleekness, and sophistication. As a collateral benefit, dark mode can provide a better user experience in low-light environments. However, assessing whether a dark design suits your brand is imperative, as it may not be ideal for displaying your specific content.
6. Minimalism
Another popular trend in the last couple of years is minimalism--and it's here to stay. Good design is about leaving out as many elements as possible and simplifying to feature only core components. Minimalism helps users navigate the design format and, as a result, makes it more effective.
7. Authentic Photography
In a time when stock photos and AI-generated images are everywhere, users notice real people and authentic photography. As more brands lean toward AI images, I expect a strong countermovement in support of traditional and minimally edited photography.
Similarly, the time for stock images is over. Users are fed up with seeing the same impersonal images scattered throughout company websites and socials. If you continue using stock images, your customers may eventually lose trust in your business.
8. Global Outsourcing of Design
One of the most significant trends in the design realm is outsourcing your company's design work. Superior design is not limited to San Francisco, New York, or London--it can be found worldwide. Talented up-and-coming designers are plentiful, and businesses can profit massively from working with the global freelance workforce. Your business will save time, money, and resources because you won't need to hire and train in-house designers. Instead, search the global talent pool to identify the best designers for your specific needs.
Outsourcing design is easier than ever and is becoming a viable option for businesses of all sizes. There are also increasingly more startups that help businesses outsource design without the hassle of traditional design agencies.
9. Gradient Effects
Gradient effects are a popular digital design trend that is becoming even more relevant. Gradients add depth and dimension to various design assets, including backgrounds, typography, and illustrations. As we move forward, look for a brighter and bolder color palette--especially the augmenting of pastel colors.
If your company's design has grown stale, refresh it with one--or several!--of these timely trends. Keeping up with design trends and selectively implementing a few new looks can bring major advantages. Thoughtful well-executed design has the power to attract and retain customers, build brand loyalty, and keep your business ahead of the competition.
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