When I watched Kelli Anderson’s TED Talk where she speaks of disruptive wonder, along with the examples of the work that she showed, what struck me was that the ideas were so very simple. The medium did not resort to using a complicated method to achieve the outcome but however, using simple techniques and a conceptual approach, the outcome presented a disruptive wonder. Aptly named so, as it was a disruption that was produced spank in the middle of an otherwise seemingly conventional approach. The ‘wonder’ in the ideas presented were further proof of the possible positive outcome of this method of design thinking.

Disruptive wonder is perhaps not a new idea as when one sees a well-solved, well-conceptualised logo or symbol perhaps, there is the whole process of disruptive wonder that is introduced in a typeface for the logo to create an extraordinary outcome from an otherwise ordinary typeface. Or a simple twist in an illustration goes on to create a disruptive wonder in the final visual outcome. To apply this method to larger concepts of entire design projects produces surprising results, successfully achieving an interaction with the outcome that is filled with wonderment.

It would be fun to apply this method of thinking to all kinds of different design assignments. I do wonder, though, whether even if I followed process work, even if I worked hand in hand with a team, would we come up with similar brilliant outcome/s? Or are Kelli Anderson’s works strokes of a genius, one that cannot be replicated? I do agree that it is a method of approach, thinking and solution that offers wonderful results. My point is that in trying to replicate a process of disruptive wonder not everyone may yield results as successfully as Kelli Andersons’ attempts.