Lexicon of design terms in the public sector
When two worlds come together, words and terms that are unfamiliar to some people often emerge. This can lead to confusion or miscommunication.
This lexicon provides an overview of commonly used design terms, with clear explanations. It can help you establish a shared understanding of these terms, while also providing a starting point for conversations and alignment around what we actually mean. The terms are organised into six language families and can be used at the start of a project, in proposals, policy documents or meetings. It is also useful for designers and civil servants who want to strengthen their collaboration through clear and shared language.
Who is it for?
Public-sector professionals who work with designers and want greater clarity around ‘design terms’.
Designers who work with public-sector professionals and want to communicate their terminology clearly or sharpen how they use it.
This lexicon was developed by De Publieke Ontwerppraktijk as part of a research project into developing a shared language between government and designers.
The card set
Words only really gain meaning in the context of your collaboration. What someone means by a particular term depends on their background, role, experience or working environment. It therefore helps to use language consciously and to discuss it together. The card set was developed to support these conversations.
How do I use the card set?
Each card features a design term, with a concise definition on the reverse. You can use the cards at the start of a project or process, as an activity during sessions, or when aligning roles and expectations.
When to use it?
The card set helps clarify uncertainties, prevent misunderstandings and develop a shared understanding of the language used in public-sector collaboration with designers. For example, you can each share your definition of a particular term and then explore where the nuances in your understanding differ.
The card set also includes five rules of thumb: five helpful principles for understanding each other better.
The presentation slides — ready to use in meetings or pitches
For situations where you want to explain the meaning of design terms briefly, visually and convincingly, a presentation version of the lexicon is available. It can be used for a pitch, onboarding, an alignment meeting or an internal workshop. Each slide provides a brief explanation of a term and can easily be adapted or added to your own presentation. A useful resource for designers and public-sector professionals who want to communicate clearly about their approach.