Good Design = Change

[Detail from the official presidential inauguration invitation, March, 1913.]

Quoted directly from The Citizen's Briefing Book on Change.gov on the power and affect that good design can play in the way our government is perceived by its citizens, how effectively it communicates and how efficiently it can disseminate information.

Change is good, good design is good, but change with good design is monumental.

As citizens, we deserve a government that’s efficient, effective, and respectful. Today it’s easy, even enjoyable, to buy an iPod, track a package, or bank online. In contrast, using our most vital public services – Social Security, Medicare, veterans’ benefits, and others – can be a time-consuming, humiliating nightmare. Americans design great products and service experiences in the private sector; it’s time to bring the same know-how to the public sector. Let’s start by passing legislation that requires professional communications design and writing in any activities that involve government communications with citizens.

Government must invest in quality graphic design and clear language for all its public communications. We need simple forms, easy-to-use websites, quality telephone support, and good signs and communications at public buildings. Well-designed communications can lower costs, reduce errors, encourage compliance, enhance understanding, and increase good will among citizens. Only when government serves the people effectively, with clarity and courtesy, do we achieve the goals of our inclusive democracy.

America has an extraordinary pool of design talent that is respected worldwide. For the benefit of citizens, to support American jobs, and to invest in the information infrastructure that will improve productivity over time, government should be committed to improving the way it communicates.
[From the Citizen's Briefing Book]