ABOUT More than 30 years ago, the multi-disciplinary designer Charles Eames was asked the question: “What are the boundaries of design?” he replied “What are the boundaries of problems?” It is my belief that design isn’t merely one solution to a given problem, it is a process that explores the potential for identifying and challenging complexed issues, providing new ways of thinking about social needs in a more creative way. Wooden Ladder’s aim is to create new service and experience designs that are ‘people-orientated’. We strive to use design as a tool to tackle social topics in areas where a creative approach is usually unconsidered. We endeavour to achieve this through the use of a creative research process that involves working in co-operation with people/clients in order to discover and react upon what makes them tick. Our methods include case studies, cultural probes, personas, and emotional mapping. Process is as important as result. Each of these techniques creatively reconnects an individual’s instincts with the problem, and intuitively provides a solution. I look for new considerations for design that spark debate and open up new and worthwhile areas for its application. I don’t point people in a single direction, I actively engage and integrate them in our process. Our passion is for design and its potential in the creation of thought provoking, meaningful and practical solutions. Jonny Wray |