Design For Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World

Design is expression, a service, an act of creativity. But if designers design for everyone, how can there be so little diversity in the profession? In this book, Jessica Bantom examines the implications of design in everyday life, from spaces and products to images and the fashion industry. Too often design concepts are based on assumptions and stereotypes that don't necessarily reflect customers' lives and values. Certain company symbols and brands, such as the image of Aunt Jemima, have stirred controversy for years but only recently has there been a corporate social awakening. The demographics of our society are changing and becoming more diverse, yet different perspectives are often ignored unless there's fallout from public backlash.

Bantom explores the concept of human-centered design that taps into an understanding of identity: how people live, what's important to them, and what informs their perspectives and experiences. Engaging directly with customers to identify their challenges and working with them to test ideas and solutions is the foundation of human-centered design. It's vital for businesses to get on board and change outdated mindsets if they want to be successful.

Bantom has been recognized as a Distinguished Favorite in multiple categories by both the NYC Big Book Award and Independent Press Award.

Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist who helps develop customized strategies for organizations that bring about transformational change. A compelling speaker, certified facilitator, and coach, Bantom seeks to enable people and organizations to reach their full potential and actualize the values of inclusion and belonging no matter what position they hold. Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as a DEIB champion committed to promoting meaningful change in the profession.

Bantom’s career is informed by her ongoing dedication to exploring the intersection of design and diversity. Jessica completed her master’s degree in Interior Design at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia, and obtained her bachelor’s degree at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, where she also completed a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education. At Georgetown University, Jessica received credentials as a Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP), and she is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business. She holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University.

In addition, Jessica is certified by Veritas Culture as a Culture Facilitator and Diversity & Belonging Facilitator, and is also a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) and Prosci Certified Change Practitioner.

A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Jessica is a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home.