Event #1: Inside Design @ Aalto

The first Inside Design workshop brought together design students from Aalto University with three experienced design leaders: Anna Kholina, Tuomas Härkönen, and Nina Hirvonen. The session focused on expanding the understanding of design beyond visual outputs and into its broader role within organizations.

Participants explored how design operates as a mindset and a collaborative practice that connects multiple disciplines. Discussions highlighted the importance of cross-functional collaboration between design, engineering, product, and business teams to build solutions that are both user-centered and viable in practice.

The workshop also emphasized the responsibility designers carry in shaping how people interact with technology. Ethical considerations, inclusive thinking, and the long-term impact of design decisions were central themes, encouraging students to view their work not only as craft but also as a form of societal influence.