### Dieter Rams was born in Wiesbaden, Germany, in 1932. He was strongly influenced by the presence of his grandfather who was a carpenter. Rams’s early awards for carpentry led him to train as an architect, as Germany was rebuilt in the early 1950s.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2Fdbf0e438-a50d-447a-bc0d-d00f36672c54.png?alt=media&token=86ed44bb-d5c7-4f8f-91eb-718066356a38","id":"dbf0e438-a50d-447a-bc0d-d00f36672c54","width":1300,"height":731,"filename":"0_X5BaAZGaiue92Lk_.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

Prompted by an eagle-eyed friend, Rams applied for a job at the German electrical products company, [Braun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Braun_(company)), in 1955. He was recruited by [Erwin and Artur Braun](https://sg.braun.com/en/design-culture/braun-designers) following the death of their father and his job was to modernize the interiors of the company that was launching revolutionary electrical products.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2Fa3b53984-da3b-4c46-9069-fc01e4e26ca7.png?alt=media&token=ae9fcb90-6d72-427b-be20-9906dc0fb6fe","id":"a3b53984-da3b-4c46-9069-fc01e4e26ca7","width":769,"height":1000,"filename":"0_NnZekFv3Km_ct2Es.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

Rams became a protégé of the [Ulm School of Design](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ulm_School_of_Design) (successor to the [Bauhaus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bauhaus)) luminaries [Hans Gugelot](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans_Gugelot), [Fritz Eichler](https://www.designundtext.com/en/protagonists/overview-fritz-eichler.php) and [Otl Aicher](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otl_Aicher).

He quickly became involved in Product Design — famously adding the clear perspex lid to the [SK4 radiogram in 1956](https://www.moma.org/collection/works/2649) — and was appointed [head of design](https://sg.braun.com/en/design-culture/braun-designers) at Braun from 1961 to 1995.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2F9c9e1156-882f-4ece-9c77-87f70e7dde80.png?alt=media&token=c294e5d2-2f8a-4b00-9a04-38271613bdb3","id":"9c9e1156-882f-4ece-9c77-87f70e7dde80","width":1087,"height":1000,"filename":"0_p6WbcrjSwufOnizF.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

### Dieter Rams introduced in Braun a systematic design, linked to form and function, its varied products represented a [utilitarian aesthetic](https://www.quora.com/What-is-utilitarian-art-What-are-some-examples), coming from the Ulm school. He made a significant contribution to Braun’s image, driving a new design approach focused on functionality.

The objects were reduced to the essentials and stripped of distracting elements to simplify the product. “**The aesthetic clarity of [Braun’s products](https://us.braun.com/en-us/design/design-and-innovation), are the result of the logical ordering of the elements and the search for a simple and harmonious totality.**”

Rams has radically changed the way we perceive electronic objects, with his experience and his modular way driven by clean and uncluttered lines. He implemented a new aesthetic style that would serve as an inspiration for future generations. His designs have as their main objective to improve people’s quality of life, by creating extremely functional, durable, and useful products that convey emotions that consumers identify with.

Together with his design team, he was responsible for many of the seminal domestic electrical products — and some furniture — of the 20th century.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2F6d2d1a61-0a45-40f1-ada2-c6c49611f9e6.jpg?alt=media&token=1362f994-f83f-4c16-a0a8-f1429d4cd9db","id":"6d2d1a61-0a45-40f1-ada2-c6c49611f9e6","width":1488,"height":992,"filename":"0_C9DSqmUUuQ1ddSk2.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2Ff23a19d4-59d4-4956-b6a1-eb7d1f26c51a.jpg?alt=media&token=78522973-96b3-4b97-8d02-fe7d5713112e","id":"f23a19d4-59d4-4956-b6a1-eb7d1f26c51a","width":1200,"height":666,"filename":"1_uxkxbLcKQ5lehGVVtyFYTg.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2Fb312fc44-f4c7-483d-b4a6-5e69db7015db.jpg?alt=media&token=1b3ed112-9405-4b6c-bbf2-57905050d3b1","id":"b312fc44-f4c7-483d-b4a6-5e69db7015db","width":862,"height":575,"filename":"0_x5JuxQf_XdS2TK3v.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

In the late 1970s, Dieter Rams was becoming increasingly concerned by the state of the world around him — “an impenetrable confusion of forms, colors, and noises.” Aware that he was a significant contributor to that world, he asked himself an important question: is my design good design?

As good design cannot be measured in a finite way, he set about expressing the 10 most important principles for what he considered good design.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2F7b675f97-6b24-4fec-8740-be4af56a6e85.jpg?alt=media&token=2bd12ebd-e030-4d64-80ba-2ae5e77c042d","id":"7b675f97-6b24-4fec-8740-be4af56a6e85","width":1349,"height":620,"filename":"1_bNLLAq1XA-f1asqDsYdMRg.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

### **1 — Good design is innovative**

The possibilities for progression are not, by any means, exhausted. Technological development is always offering new opportunities for original designs. But imaginative design always develops in tandem with improving technology, and can never be an end in itself.

#### **2 — Good design makes a product useful**

A product is bought to be used. It has to satisfy not only functional but also psychological and aesthetic criteria. Good design emphasizes the usefulness of a product whilst disregarding anything that could detract from it.

#### **3 — Good design is aesthetic**

The aesthetic quality of a product is integral to its usefulness because the products we use every day affect our person and our well-being. But only well-executed objects can be beautiful.

#### **4 — Good design makes a product understandable**

It clarifies the product’s structure. Better still, it can make the product talk. At best, it is self-explanatory.

#### **5 — Good design is unobtrusive**

Products fulfilling a purpose are like tools. They are neither decorative objects nor works of art. Their design should therefore be both neutral and restrained, to leave room for the user’s self-expression.

#### **6 — Good design is honest**

It does not make a product more innovative, powerful, or valuable than it really is. It does not attempt to manipulate the consumer with promises that cannot be kept.

### **7 — Good design is long-lasting**

It avoids being fashionable and therefore never appears antiquated. Unlike fashionable design, it lasts many years — even in today’s throwaway society.

#### **8 — Good design is thorough down to the last detail**

Nothing must be arbitrary or left to chance. Care and accuracy in the design process show respect towards the user.

#### **9 — Good design is environmentally friendly**

Design makes an important contribution to the preservation of the environment. It conserves resources and minimizes physical and visual pollution throughout the lifecycle of the product.

#### **10 — Good design is as little design as possible**

Less, but better — because it concentrates on the essential aspects, and the products are not burdened with non-essentials.

## **Back to purity, back to simplicity.**

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2F7490ac49-6745-4dcc-a6c9-1ab1b1eb0362.jpg?alt=media&token=804d3399-09e0-4da5-aee4-94bd649f11f0","id":"7490ac49-6745-4dcc-a6c9-1ab1b1eb0362","width":1488,"height":930,"filename":"0_85tnfA0w9-oVCbnA.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

Over the years his work has been recognized with the title of [Royal Designer for Industry](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Designers_for_Industry), by the [Royal Society of Arts](https://www.thersa.org/) in London. Also being awarded the SIAD medal by the [Society of Industrial Artists and Designers](https://www.siad.org/) in London and the World Design Medal by the [Industrial Designer Society of America](https://www.idsa.org/).

In 1995, he published the book “**[Less but better](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22005475-weniger-aber-besser-less-but-better?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=BYbYT1pyDw&rank=1)**” reporting his design philosophy and his main products produced at Braun. His work has a quality that distinguishes it from the vast majority of **[industrial design in the mid-twentieth century](https://www.oreilly.com/library/view/understanding-industrial-design/9781491920381/ch01.html)**.

Dieter Rams is a pioneer in showing how design can have a strong orientation by creating innovative solutions that respond to everyday problems, so design only works for Rams when looking for a **[solution for humanity](https://medium.com/user-experience-design-1/putting-people-before-numbers-and-creating-a-positive-impact-through-design-d44701ce6ecd)**. His attitude towards design has led many people to identify with his philosophy of “less, but better”, about getting rid of excess, visual pollution, and living only with what is necessary.

He is an excellent reference in terms of design, but above all a great example of a design leader who revolutionized the history of Braun.

If you are wondering, he is still alive, 91 years old, and would be proud to see Read.cv and Posts elegant design. 😌

---

## **Bonus Pieces**

### **Poster**

🖼 **[Download this poster](https://www.dropbox.com/s/n41a73ip31ng76t/dieter-rams-poster-1984-design.png.zip?dl=0)**, print and hang it on your wall as a reminder.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2F1a47357e-298b-4693-9acd-83b060202636.jpg?alt=media&token=390f3cc1-e26d-4cac-b198-5109c46f57d1","id":"1a47357e-298b-4693-9acd-83b060202636","width":1488,"height":992,"filename":"0_pmLLQRUCq1ThAuLk.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

### **Color Palettes**

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2F8c7b35be-7da9-4df8-92a9-63226e397d22.png?alt=media&token=8b7e191f-2b74-41be-8125-2f00966a3853","id":"8c7b35be-7da9-4df8-92a9-63226e397d22","width":1600,"height":1002,"filename":"1_OlPjD2UE-qzIkZ19THwb8g.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F0xeTG2t8SX86dl2KYy2O%2F4f7b439a-4f56-41cc-833f-57be4c38d23d.png?alt=media&token=60a75a7d-48fe-46b4-858d-ff135a6c6418","id":"4f7b439a-4f56-41cc-833f-57be4c38d23d","width":1600,"height":1002,"filename":"1_82OhIcPDtWMvvMyfKXdbUQ.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

🎨 **[Get this Figma community file](https://www.figma.com/file/9QFH6Q9taRX2o451ZJHQMB/10-Dieter-Rams-Inspired-Color-Palettes-%28Community%29?type=design&node-id=0-1&mode=design&t=0YoNE8Gkg8hARnlR-0)** for more color palettes.

---

Thanks for reading.

Originally published on **[1984.design](https://1984.design/)**

Dieter Rams and 10 principles for good design

### **[The Bear](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bear_(TV_series)) is an American psychological comedy-drama television series created by Christopher Storer. Jeremy Allen White stars as Carmy Berzatto, an award-winning chef who returns to his hometown of Chicago to manage the chaotic kitchen at his deceased brother's sandwich shop.**

In Season 3, Carmy takes an investment from his uncle Cicero, and together with his partner Syd, renovates the sandwich shop, transforming it into a culinary experience.

After the opening, Carmy introduces a lengthy list of non-negotiables, revealing his overbearing management style. As he becomes fixated on running the restaurant successfully, he intensifies his efforts to improve as a chef, imposing strict methods on his staff.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F7ZPRRs7o895Op3PYLooT%2Fbeba2929-f0ac-44c0-bf07-238e1435f81f.jpg?alt=media&token=8fd5802e-9797-41a6-b8a3-3ce35d639a81","id":"beba2929-f0ac-44c0-bf07-238e1435f81f","width":1086,"height":724,"filename":"1727933137990.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

However, instead of fostering success, these tactics often lead to increased chaos and conflict in the kitchen. His non-negotiables mark the beginning of his downward spiral, highlighting the tension between ambition and the impact of his leadership style.

Effective leaders must balance high standards with flexibility, fostering an environment that promotes collaboration and open communication.

Let’s review these non-negotiables from a business perspective, reflecting on insights we can apply to our design and development processes.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F7ZPRRs7o895Op3PYLooT%2F11a8ba36-4290-46d7-bc8a-2c84b68fc7b5.jpg?alt=media&token=a639bfe2-2f06-424a-a6a9-73aa4e1addbd","id":"11a8ba36-4290-46d7-bc8a-2c84b68fc7b5","width":1920,"height":1080,"filename":"The-Bear_06_Disney_Matt-Dinnerstein_supplied.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

## **Mise-en-Place (Of the Place): Preparation and Organization**

> “Mise-en-place” is a French culinary term meaning to gather and organize all ingredients before cooking. Carmy emphasizes this practice, knowing that the best restaurants rely on this level of preparation.

In a business or product development setting, *mise-en-place* represents the importance of thorough preparation and organization before starting any project. Teams should gather all the resources, align on goals, and have a clear roadmap before executing tasks. Proper planning sets a solid foundation for product success.

**💡 Business Insight**: Preparation ensures smoother operations. Proper resource allocation and organization lead to efficiency and minimize bottlenecks.

---

## **Less is More: Focus on Core Value**

> Carmy insists his team embrace minimalism. The finest dishes are often simple, using high-quality ingredients and basic techniques. He believes focusing on quality over complexity is key to success, especially in presentation.

Insistence on minimalism—focusing on high-quality ingredients and processes—applies to product development. Successful products often rely on simplicity and a clear focus on core features rather than overwhelming users with unnecessary complexities.

**💡 Business Insight**: Prioritize what truly matters. Focusing on delivering a few key features well can often outperform complex solutions with too many unnecessary bells and whistles.

---

## **Vibrant Collaboration: Leadership and Team Dynamics**

> Carmy fosters positive teamwork in the kitchen. However, his pursuit of perfection strains relationships, leading to impatience and stress among the staff.

Leadership style can make or break team morale. Successful business leaders know when to lead with empathy and when to push for high standards.

**💡 Business Insight**: Positive leadership fosters innovation and strong team dynamics. Micromanaging and pushing too hard under pressure can damage team cohesion and lead to burnout.

---

## **No Repeat Ingredients: Innovation**

> Carmy pushes for innovation by using fresh, new ingredients. This ensures the restaurant’s offerings remain exciting and elevate its status.

Carmy’s approach of constantly bringing in new ingredients reflects the need for continuous innovation in product development. To stay competitive, teams must experiment with new ideas, iterate quickly, and ensure their products are always fresh and evolving.

**💡Business Insight**: Innovation should be a core principle. Reusing the same ideas can lead to stagnation while encouraging experimentation keeps the product competitive.

---

## **Consolidation + Speed: Efficiency and Scalability**

> Efficiency is vital. Carmy expects his team to work faster, ensuring smooth service and reducing customer wait times without compromising quality.

Speed and efficiency are essential to providing good service—whether in a restaurant or product management. Carmy’s focus on speeding up workflows while consolidating processes reflects how teams should aim for efficiency without sacrificing quality.

**💡 Business Insight**: Streamlining operations is crucial. Efficient workflows and well-organized processes can make teams more productive and scalable, leading to faster time-to-market for products.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2Fcarmys-non-negotiables%2F45f3b541-e5b8-4666-9295-578f627dd487.jpg?alt=media&token=374293ef-41de-41a5-9bd5-709599543b0f","id":"45f3b541-e5b8-4666-9295-578f627dd487","width":2530,"height":1690,"filename":"Bear-E301_Still018-e1719371451838.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

## **Confidence + Competence: Team Empowerment**

> Carmy urges his team to take ownership and stay eager to learn. However, his methods echo those of his former toxic mentors, causing burnout and staff departures.

This speaks to how important it is for teams to be confident in their abilities and encouraged to grow. In business, team members should be empowered to contribute ideas and take responsibility for their tasks.

**💡 Business Insight**: Empowerment boosts morale and productivity. A confident and competent team is more likely to innovate and solve problems effectively.

---

## **In + Out Service: Operational Efficiency and Communication**

> Carmy aims for seamless operations both in the kitchen and front of house, maximizing efficiency and minimizing customer wait times. Yet, his fixation on perfection undermines his ability to communicate and train his team effectively.

Seamless operations mirror the importance of efficient workflows in business. In product development, it translates to optimizing processes to minimize friction between different departments (e.g., development, marketing, customer support). Efficiency must go hand in hand with strong communication and training.

**💡 Business Insight**: Operational efficiency requires clear communication. Seamless processes in product development, like in a restaurant, are only achievable when all teams are aligned. Without proper communication and training, even the most efficient processes can fall apart.

---

## **Pursuit of Excellence: Balance in Standards**

> Chasing excellence is noble, but Carmy’s one-sided view creates friction. His vision of perfection doesn’t align with that of his partner, Sydney, leading to tension and her consideration of leaving.

While striving for excellence is admirable, a singular focus on perfection without considering the team’s input causes friction. In product development, aiming for excellence is important, but it must involve collaboration and a shared understanding of what “excellence” means across the team.

**💡 Business Insight**: Excellence is a shared pursuit. Define clear, realistic goals and collaborate with the team to ensure they’re on board with the vision.

---

## **Details Matter: Attention to Quality**

> To reach Michelin-level standards, every detail matters. Carmy knows achieving such a high honor requires precision in every aspect of the restaurant, from food to service.

Focus on the small details reflects the need for precision in product development. Whether in coding, user interface design, or customer service, paying attention to the finer details can differentiate a good product from a great one.

**💡 Business Insight**: Focus on details without losing the big picture. Attention to small things, such as user experience or performance optimization, creates a polished final product.

---

## **Know Your Shit: Skill Mastery**

> This rule reflects Carmy’s growing impatience. He no longer gives his staff time to adapt, expecting instant upgrades in their skills, which leads to tension and stress in the kitchen.

The demand for expertise and deep knowledge in teams parallels the need for skill mastery in business. High-performing teams should be composed of individuals who not only understand their roles but are constantly improving their knowledge and expertise.

**💡 Business Insight**: Invest in talent development. Ensuring team members are continually learning and growing. This will keep them sharp and ready for any challenges.

---

## **Focus: Prioritization**

> Cooking demands focus. Carmy reminds his team to be constantly aware of what they are doing to minimize errors, striving for flawless execution.

Focus is essential to avoid mistakes. Clear focus and prioritization of key objectives ensure that teams don’t lose sight of what matters most, especially in high-pressure situations.

**💡 Business Insight**: Focus leads to success. By prioritizing tasks and avoiding distractions, teams can deliver better products within deadlines.

---

## **Service: Holistic Customer Experience**

> Carmy understands that service quality is crucial for earning a Michelin star. It’s not just about food; the entire dining experience must be impeccable.

A holistic approach to customer experience in the business is crucial. It’s not enough to deliver a high-quality product; the entire experience—from the initial interaction with staff to the final course—must be exceptional. In product management, this translates to ensuring that every touchpoint with the customer, including onboarding, support, and feedback, is thoughtfully designed.

**💡 Business Insight**: Prioritize the customer experience. Quality service enhances the overall perception of a brand and contributes significantly to customer loyalty. Involve all teams—design, engineering, and customer support—in creating an exceptional user experience. Aligning the entire organization around customer satisfaction fosters a culture of excellence and can distinguish a product in a competitive market.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F7ZPRRs7o895Op3PYLooT%2F50c0633c-f7ce-48d0-aafe-77666c774639.jpg?alt=media&token=b7c8e229-d9e0-4d5c-9961-7dccb0538827","id":"50c0633c-f7ce-48d0-aafe-77666c774639","width":1400,"height":700,"filename":"the-bear-every-second-counts.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

## **Time: Effective Time Management**

> Time management is key. "Every Second Counts" highlights the importance of minimizing delays and delivering prompt service without sacrificing quality.

Timely delivery of products and services is essential for maintaining customer satisfaction and a competitive edge. This principle highlights the necessity of minimizing delays and ensuring prompt service without compromising quality.

**💡 Business Insight**: Effective time management drives efficiency. Teams should adopt strategies that streamline processes and reduce lead times. This includes setting clear deadlines, prioritizing tasks, and leveraging project management tools. In a fast-paced environment, fostering a culture that values time can enhance responsiveness and agility, ultimately leading to better customer experiences and higher satisfaction rates.

---

## **Not About You: Customer-Centric Mindset**

> Carmy reminds his staff that the customer comes first. Their passion for cooking should serve the guests, not their egos.

This principle serves as a reminder that while passion and creativity are vital, the primary focus must always be on meeting customer needs and enhancing their experience.

**💡 Business Insight**: A customer-centric mindset is crucial for success. Team members should understand that their roles exist to serve the customer, and their passion should translate into delivering exceptional value. Encouraging a culture where the customer’s needs and preferences are prioritized helps align the team’s efforts with the organization’s goals.

---

## **Perfect Means Perfect: Balancing Ambition with Realism**

> Carmy’s traumatic past drives his unrealistic pursuit of perfection. While he knows it’s unattainable, he struggles to balance his ambition with reality, often doubling down on his perfectionism.

The pursuit of perfection reflects a common challenge in business: the tension between high aspirations and realistic outcomes. While striving for excellence is commendable, an obsession with perfection can lead to burnout and disillusionment, both for individuals and teams.

**💡 Business Insight**: Embrace the pursuit of excellence while recognizing its limitations. Setting high standards is essential, but it’s equally important to foster a culture that values progress over perfection. Encourage teams to celebrate incremental improvements and learn from failures rather than striving for an unattainable ideal.

---

## **No Excuses: Accountability and Ownership**

> Carmy demands accountability. He expects professionalism and for his team to find solutions rather than making excuses for any shortcomings.

This resonates with how businesses should operate. Team members must take responsibility for their work, understand the importance of their role, and seek solutions rather than offer excuses when challenges arise.

**💡 Business Insight**: Accountability breeds trust. A culture of ownership leads to higher standards and fosters trust among team members and stakeholders.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F7ZPRRs7o895Op3PYLooT%2Fd1db10e5-aab1-4c4f-83db-3064a31b3b8d.jpg?alt=media&token=98f474b6-e196-4c6f-9ed4-07744193fc3a","id":"d1db10e5-aab1-4c4f-83db-3064a31b3b8d","width":2048,"height":1365,"filename":"23bear-food-grouptwo-lqfb-superJumbo.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

## **Respect Tradition: Balancing Innovation with Authenticity**

> Carmy emphasizes the importance of honoring culinary traditions. To earn Michelin stars, they must balance innovation with respect for classic techniques and authenticity.

In the business world, particularly in product development, this principle serves as a reminder that while innovation is essential for growth and competitiveness, understanding and respecting foundational practices can enhance authenticity and customer trust.

**💡 Business Insight**: Integrating traditional methods with modern innovations can create unique value propositions. Companies should recognize the heritage and core principles of their industry while encouraging teams to innovate responsibly. This balance fosters a culture that values both creativity and the wisdom of past practices, leading to more meaningful products and services.

---

## **Push Boundaries: Innovation Through Challenge**

> Carmy’s past pushes him to expect his team to work beyond their limits. While it can inspire growth, his methods risk harming their creativity and mental well-being.

Pushing boundaries means stepping outside of comfort zones, experimenting, and taking calculated risks to bring something new to the market.

**💡 Business Insight**: Encourage innovation while protecting mental health. While pushing the team can lead to breakthroughs, ensure the environment supports well-being and creativity.

---

## **Technique, Technique, Technique: Mastery of Craft**

> Mastery of technique is fundamental. Carmy wants every staff member to excel in their roles, taking meticulous notes on every dish to set a high standard.

Mastering the tools, frameworks, and methodologies that produce high-quality outcomes. Teams need to hone their craft continually and be adept at using the latest technologies.

**💡 Business Insight**: Master your craft. Excellence comes from mastering the fundamentals and continuously improving technical and creative skills.

---

## **Passion and Creativity: Natural Motivation**

> Passion can’t be forced. While Carmy believes in evolving through creativity, his rigid approach backfires. Staff mock this rule, as true passion must come naturally, not through mandate.

Creativity and passion can’t be forced—teams thrive in environments where they feel valued and inspired.

**💡 Business Insight**: Nurture creativity. Build a culture that encourages innovation and allows team members to bring their passion to the table.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2F7ZPRRs7o895Op3PYLooT%2Ff4a32b54-0804-4786-8fd3-ef8160bc1167.jpg?alt=media&token=2e21520c-0806-4c0e-9ffa-d08b073b3397","id":"f4a32b54-0804-4786-8fd3-ef8160bc1167","width":1600,"height":900,"filename":"original_1.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

### **Carmy's non-negotiables reflect a deep understanding of the importance of preparation, accountability, focus, and innovation.**

In a business these principles translate into organized and efficient teams, a strong commitment to quality, innovation balanced with tradition, and a leadership style that empowers and challenges the team without stifling creativity or well-being.

Businesses can learn from Carmy's approach to aim for excellence but must be mindful of how it impacts the team's health and morale. Fostering collaboration, continuous improvement, and a balance between innovation and consistency is the key to long-term success.

**— Thanks for reading.**

Carmy’s non-negotiables: Insights for business management and product development

**Inspired by posts from [Fede](https://read.cv/fsanchez/app-defaults) & [Andy](https://read.cv/andy/app-defaults-2023).**

List of apps & websites I am currently using:

* **Design** → Figma, Adobe CC

* **Prototyping** → Figma

* **Code** → [VS Code](https://code.visualstudio.com/), [GitHub Desktop](https://desktop.github.com/)

* **Development** → [DigitalOcean](https://www.digitalocean.com/), [WordPress](https://wordpress.com/), [Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/pricing), [Plesk](https://www.plesk.com/), [Cloudflare](https://www.cloudflare.com/), [GitHub](https://github.com/)

* **Video Editing** → [Final Cut Pro](https://www.apple.com/final-cut-pro/), [DaVinci Resolve](https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/tr/products/davinciresolve)

* **Analytics** → [Plausible](https://plausible.io)

* **AI** → [OpenAI](https://openai.com/), [Midjourney](https://www.midjourney.com/), [Perplexity](https://www.perplexity.ai/), [Kaiber](https://kaiber.ai/), [Runway](https://runwayml.com/), [ElevenLabs](https://elevenlabs.io/)

* **Mail** → Apple

* **Notes** → [Obsidian](https://obsidian.md/), Notion, [Dropbox Paper](https://paper.dropbox.com/), [SLAB](https://slab.com/)

* **To-Do** → N/A (Analog)

* **Habits** → [DailyHabits](https://app.dailyhabits.xyz/)

* **Calendar** → Apple

* **RSS** → [Feedly](https://feedly.com/)

* **Contacts** → Apple, Google, [Clay](https://clay.earth/)

* **Browser** → [Brave](https://brave.com/)

* **Chat** → Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal

* **Meetings** → Google

* **Bookmarks** → [Raindrop](https://raindrop.io/), Brave

* **Read It Later** → Feedly

* **Spreadsheets** → Google Sheets

* **Presentations** → Figma

* **Shopping Lists** → N/A (Analog)

* **Meal Planning** → N/A (Analog)

* **Budgeting** → Notion

* **Finance** → [Mercury](https://mercury.com/), [Brex](https://www.brex.com/), [Stripe](https://stripe.com/), [ChartMorgul](https://chartmogul.com)

* **Sales** → [Lemonsqueezy](https://www.lemonsqueezy.com/), [Gumroad](https://gumroad.com/), [MemberSpace](https://www.memberspace.com/), Stripe, Paypal

* **News** → Feedly

* **Music** → [Echoes](https://echoesapp.io), Spotify, [NTS](https://www.nts.live/), [Last.fm](https://www.last.fm/user/okuzcuk)

* **Podcasts** → Spotify

* **Newsletter** → [Beehiiv](https://www.beehiiv.com/)

* **Stock** → [Envato Elements](https://elements.envato.com/), [Pixelbuddha](https://pixelbuddha.net/), [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/), [Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/), [AIsplash](https://www.aisplash.com/), [Neurascapes](https://www.neurascapes.com/), [Noun Project](https://thenounproject.com/), [Freepik](https://www.freepik.com/), 

* **Color** → [Huemint](https://huemint.com/brand-1/), [ColorBox](https://colorbox.io/), [Adobe Color](https://color.adobe.com/create/color-wheel/), [Color Leap](https://colorleap.app/dates), [Scale](https://hihayk.github.io/scale/?ref=prototyprio#4/6/50/80/-51/67/20/14/1D9A6C/29/154/108/white)

* **Various** → [atipo foundry](https://www.atipofoundry.com/), [tldraw](https://www.tldraw.com/), [Meta Tags](https://metatags.io/), [Rebrandly](https://www.rebrandly.com/), [uBlock Origin](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/ublock-origin/cjpalhdlnbpafiamejdnhcphjbkeiagm?pli=1), [Grammarly](https://app.grammarly.com/), [WhatFont](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/whatfont/jabopobgcpjmedljpbcaablpmlmfcogm), [Letterboxd](https://letterboxd.com/)

* **On my radar** → [Milanote](https://milanote.com)

---

### **PS:** Remove the name of the bookmarks, and use only icons to display more items in the bookmarks bar. Brave users will also have a sidebar for more space.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2Fapps-websites-2023%2F4a1dcb3d-f103-4261-97fe-04cb656af233.png?alt=media&token=c1d0e499-8979-4d39-8adb-6bf22b859339","id":"4a1dcb3d-f103-4261-97fe-04cb656af233","width":3104,"height":1978,"filename":"Screen Shot 2023-12-06 at 13.52.20.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

Apps · Websites · 2023

I have recently watched a few dramas that explore the topic of startup failures. This series expose the negative consequences of flawed business models, as well as the unethical behaviors of some startup founders, shedding light on the challenges that entrepreneurs face in the current startup ecosystem, and highlighting the importance of ethical leadership and sustainability in business.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2FKmtsiXgNEFINo0h05Okv%2F8ae38ff9-4a14-456c-9ce0-04c7781d550a.png?alt=media&token=8158a7d9-448d-40eb-a8e2-07f69645c883","id":"8ae38ff9-4a14-456c-9ce0-04c7781d550a","width":1400,"height":933,"filename":"1_N2yVsWKl8S-hJjVcxO3org.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

## **✦ The Dropout**

Documents the disgraced biotechnology company [Theranos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theranos) and its founder [Elizabeth Holmes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_Holmes). At the age of 19, after dropping out of Stanford, she claimed to revolutionize laboratories through blood tests that could be performed rapidly while using very small amounts of blood.

Holmes provided false statements to investors and showed them fake demonstrations of the medical testing device to persuade them to invest in her company, breaching the principle of honesty and the standard of integrity.

The show touches on experiences that motivated Holmes’s deceptions and lies, starting from the beginning and all the way to her exposure as a fraud.

In the end, millions of people’s health and lives were put in danger due to inaccurate blood test results, 700 million dollars of investors’ money was lost, and 800 people lost their jobs.

Holmes’s [sentenced to 11+ years](https://www.npr.org/2022/11/23/1138477784/elizabeth-holmes-sentenced-11-years-explained) (135 months) in prison. [Sunny Balwani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunny_Balwani), who spent six years as Theranos’s chief operating officer and ex-romantic partner of Holmes, has been sentenced to nearly 13 years in prison over his role in the now-defunct blood-testing firm.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2FKmtsiXgNEFINo0h05Okv%2F67a0aff0-5b17-4b0e-9b95-19cf1626d932.png?alt=media&token=f6b08165-25d1-4e93-8983-001f67948137","id":"67a0aff0-5b17-4b0e-9b95-19cf1626d932","width":1200,"height":675,"filename":"1_H-aV4pCbFWUFBRzyOcOclg.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

## **✦ Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber**

Documents the rise and fall of [Travis Kalanick](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travis_Kalanick), the corruption in his Uber empire, and the myriad of scandals that included allegations of [data privacy scandals](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/mar/03/uber-secret-program-greyball-resignation-ed-baker#:~:text=The%20program%20helped%20Uber%20drivers%20avoid%20being%20ticketed.&text=Greyball%20used%20geolocation%20data%2C%20credit,operations%2C%20according%20to%20the%20Times.), [workplace discrimination, and sexual harassment](https://www.susanjfowler.com/blog/2017/2/19/reflecting-on-one-very-strange-year-at-uber), and captures the arrogance of the company executives very well.

During his ride-hailing company’s meteoric rise, he came to personify the aggressive, risk-taking nature of a new generation of tech start-ups intent on “[disrupting](https://hbr.org/2017/11/startups-that-seek-to-disrupt-get-more-funding-than-those-that-seek-to-build)” other industries like taxis, hotels, and food delivery. Uber [flouted laws](https://www.theguardian.com/news/2022/jul/10/uber-files-leak-reveals-global-lobbying-campaign), duped police, exploited violence against drivers and secretly lobbied governments during its aggressive global expansion.

CEO Travis Kalanick, who is ultimately stepped down from the company’s board of directors, severing his last tie with the business in a boardroom coup after tense internal and external battles.

Uber has [turned Kalanick into a billionaire](https://www.bbc.com/news/business-42740680), he currently runs a [venture fund](https://techcrunch.com/2018/03/07/travis-kalanick-is-launching-a-venture-fund/) and a [start-up](https://cloudkitchens.com/) that operates “[dark kitchens](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_restaurant)” — cooking facilities that prepare food for delivery.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2FKmtsiXgNEFINo0h05Okv%2F3dc1c872-9923-4035-9833-fb795f785250.png?alt=media&token=bd4dcd6f-145f-4700-8247-0e69efffa5f0","id":"3dc1c872-9923-4035-9833-fb795f785250","width":1200,"height":900,"filename":"1_Cs8AQYaku-9wpCapjPFAIw.png","type":"image/png","caption":"","border":false}]}
```

## **✦ WeCrashed**

Documents the greed-filled rise and inevitable fall of [WeWork](https://www.wework.com/), a coworking space company and one of the world’s most valuable startups whose valuation reached $47 billion in 2019 before [crashing](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2019/dec/20/why-wework-went-wrong) as a result of financial revelations.

Behind the crash are the narcissists, real-life married couple Adam and Rebekah Neumann, whose chaotic love made it all possible.

[Adam Neumann](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Neumann) announced in 2019 that he was [stepping down as CEO](https://www.npr.org/2019/09/24/763913318/wework-ceo-steps-down-as-ipo-stalls). In retrospect, Neumann’s knack for amassing billions of dollars in venture capital with no viable business model was one of the greatest scams of the twenty-first century.

Though the well-documented megalomania of Adam and Rebekah Neumann is now largely recognized as the stuff of nightmares, it worked wonders on investors with too much cash on their hands. So if it was all largely a swindle, its most prominent victims were the ultra-wealthy.

Neumann received $245m in company stock and $200m in cash, part of an enormous exit package from the office rental company he led to dizzy heights before its equally dramatic fall and laying off 2,400 employees globally.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FVIP4DgA15oSJgzPcKejjepd2ROr2%2FKmtsiXgNEFINo0h05Okv%2Ff7a66034-a2aa-49d5-811c-395cec1c7459.png?alt=media&token=a3900fb8-383f-4a50-95fe-fbf84d1b1795","id":"f7a66034-a2aa-49d5-811c-395cec1c7459","width":1296,"height":730,"filename":"1_QC6MKHtQdyf25nEfRVBbjw.png","type":"image/png","caption":"here is to the crazy ones that change the world!","border":false}]}
```

## **✦ General Magic**

After watching all this greed, and fraud in modern startups with unrealistic valuations and investments, I can’t help but think of [General Magic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Magic) and extraordinary people in the 90s, with a passion for inventing the future by making products and creating amazing things.

The ideas that dominate the tech industry and our day-to-day lives were born at a secretive Silicon Valley start-up named “[General Magic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Magic)” which spun out of Apple in 1990 to create the first handheld personal communicator (or “smartphone”).

They didn’t care about money, salary, or fame. They worked tirelessly, sat on the floors, made products, and created innovations that are the foundation of everything we take for granted today.

```cv
youtube
{"url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTdyb-RWNKo&feature=youtu.be","width":200,"height":113,"thumbnail":"https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uTdyb-RWNKo/hqdefault.jpg"}
```

`We all started in the same place `\
`you are in today. `\
`Everyone has the same self `\
`doubts and no one’s perfect. `\
`And when you meet your heroes `\
`and when you work with them `\
`and they treat you as a peer, `\
`learn from it. `\
`Keep moving. If you’re `\
`dreaming the right dream, `\
`you’re on the right path.`\
`I’ve been there before, `\
`it’s tough, keep going. `\
`These people helped me `\
`to become the person I am. `\
`How can we take this same idea `\
`of bold dramatic change `\
`to help create a better society? `\
`We are going to have `\
`to invent those things `\
`and do it in all of these other domains that are `\
`being touched or revolutionized by technology. `\
`It may seem daunting, it may seem difficult, `\
`it may seem impossible, `\
`but if you just find the right people`\
`and keep seeking out `\
`knowledge and advice`\
`keep staying open`\
`to make a better world `\
`regardless of where you come from,`\
`great things can happen.`

> *— [Tony Fadell](https://www.buildc.com/meet-tony), co-creator of the iPod & iPhone*

---

Have you watched any similar shows? Let me know! 💬

TV series about startup failures

The best way to treat obstacles is to use them as stepping stones.

Multidisciplinary Creative

Putting people before numbers and creating a positive impact through design

Design decisions are being executed at a historically unprecedented pace and scale. And most of them are not for the sake of people but care more about business goals, numbers and making a profit.

The age of creative machines

AI is more and more performing daily tasks that were once the sole domain of designers, creating a divide between those who welcome the technology and those who fear it.

First things first

Our time and energy are increasingly used to manufacture demand, exploit populations, extract resources, fill landfills, pollute the air, promote colonization, and propel our planet’s sixth mass extinction.

Usability heuristics for user interface design

Exploring design heuristics that are principles for design, based on empirical and research-informed best practices. 

How can we practice design without harming the Planet? 🌎

How can designers build eco-conscious design practices? What exactly is design’s role in the climate movement? And what other communities and industries should we look to for the way forward?

Community-based design

To solve big-scale design problems, Don Norman recommends engaging with the community that has these problems and leveraging existing creativity and experience.

Dieter Rams is a pioneer in showing how design can have a strong orientation by creating innovative solutions that respond to everyday problems.

Design for the environment

The best way to start any sustainability or circular economy adoption process is to start with systems and life cycle thinking approach.

Corita Kent: teachings to free the creative spirit

Corita challenged both the church and the art world with her expressive creations, stirring a remarkable disruption, and offered fundamental principles, tools, and techniques to enhance and encourage artistic creativity.

AI in UX/UI Design

Enterprise Design Thinking is IBM's approach to applying design thinking at the speed & scale a modern enterprise demands. It helps our teams not only form intent but deliver outcomes - outcomes that advance the state of the art and improve the lives of the people they serve.

✤ Able to discuss and apply basic Enterprise Design Thinking concepts.

✤ Able to identify opportunities to apply Enterprise Design Thinking.

Enterprise Design Thinking Practitioner

Interview

Outdoor Türkiye Startup Feature

Tumblr'dan Yüzler

Birmingham BioCity

Directed this short film to raise awareness of the child labor issue in agriculture in Turkey.

—

Child labor in Turkey continues as both an international and domestic issue for the country. Despite Turkish and global community efforts to establish policies to prevent child labor and protect the interests of children, child labor persists. In 2017, nearly 800,000 children worked in the hazelnut fields. Most children work 11-hour days, seven days a week in the fields.

Astralis Care

Various projects from branding design to creative direction

Selected works

Creating an educational knowledge hub with design principles, design-thinking frameworks, & cognitive biases.

1984.design

Explore your Spotify music streaming stats; top artists and top songs.  Discover new music and create Spotify playlists.

Echoes

Clients: Marks & Spencer, Toyota, Capcom, L'Oréal, Brown-Forman, Woodbourne Group, Integra Global and more.

Services: Creative direction, branding, and product design.

Bora

2024

2023