Shujan Bertrand, IDSA

Founder, Aplat Inc.

Based in San Francisco, Shujan Bertrand is an advocate for sustainable local manufacturing, supporting local organic farms, and food producers, and donates 1% of profits to environmental and non-profit organizations. Shujan uses the art of origami principles for zero waste design and manufacturing. Through Aplat, she hopes to grow awareness for responsible design, creating new partnerships with sustainable companies and organizations who care about people and the planet.

Shu has worked internationally in Paris, Milan, and Seoul. She is an industrial designer with over 20 years of product design experience in soft goods design, advanced product development, design research, and strategy. She has impacted brands around the globe, translating user-centered insights into new product and business opportunities. She has led design teams and projects for studios like Astro Studios and IDEO, and for brands such as Incase, Steelcase, Nike, Samsung, LG Electronics, and Procter & Gamble. She has served on the design jury teams for IDEA and the Canne Lion Innovation Awards in France.

Defining Excellence: A Look Inside the IDEA Jury Process and the Impact of Design Awards

IDC & IDEA Ceremony

Panel Discussion

August 24, 2023

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Ballroom

Join members of the 2023 IDEA Jury for a panel discussion on the intersection of sustainability, accessibility, and social impact. These thought leaders will delve into the evaluations and how the top IDEA winners are addressing social issues and moving the conversation of circular design forward.

We will discuss entry trends and what the jury wants to see more of, and how crucial it is to incorporate sustainable practices and materials into the design process, ensuring products are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also environmentally friendly. We will also address the vital aspect of accessibility, discussing how inclusive design can empower individuals with diverse abilities and create products that are usable by everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive limitations.

This panel aims to inspire designers and innovators to embrace a holistic approach that includes sustainable and accessible design principles, ultimately fostering a more equitable and environmentally conscious society.

About IDEA

The International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) is one of the longest running and most prestigious design awards programs in existence. IDEA winners are responsible for some of the most successful and significant products ever created.

Shujan Bertrand, IDSA

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