Reflections from DesignUp 2024: Why Humanities Will Thrive in the Age of Algorithms

It’s been nearly two months since my colleague, Giri, and I attended DesignUp in Bangalore, but the experience still feels fresh. DesignUp wasn’t just a break from the usual work routine – it was an experience that challenged us to think differently, sparked new ideas, and left us feeling hopeful about the future. 

The diverse mix of speakers—from tech leaders to designers—opened up new ways of thinking and helped me step outside my ‘researcher shoes,’ exploring the rich intersections of design, technology, culture, and business. The cross-disciplinary conversations sparked a wealth of new insights that have reshaped my approach to research.

AI was a hot topic at DesignUp, making its way into nearly every talk. Like many young researchers and designers in the audience, we felt a mix of excitement and anxiety, eager to hear how AI might impact our work. Would our skills become obsolete? Are we replaceable? The anticipation was real, but the answer hit home: ‘In a world of algorithms, humanities will be a differentiator.’ While technology evolves, our ability to connect with people—through empathy, storytelling, and ethical judgment—will always set us apart. It was reassuring to hear that our work still matters and that technology will never replace what makes us human.

This message resonated across several talks. Simon Roberts reminded us of the power of model-making in design, highlighting that AI can’t match the human ability to make sense of complex data and present it in a compelling way. Josh Clark introduced Sentient Design, showing us how AI can help create adaptive interfaces and open up new possibilities for interaction. And Suresh Eriyat celebrated the power of storytelling, illustrating how the smallest moments in life can carry deep meaning—something AI simply can’t replicate.

All in all, what stood out most about the event was that it wasn’t just about keeping up with trends—it was about grounding ourselves in the essence of what makes us human. As we move forward, finding the right balance between technology and humanity will be crucial—not just for us as researchers and designers, but for society as a whole.

A big thank you to PeepalDesign for this incredible opportunity. I’m excited to integrate these learnings into the impactful work we’re already doing.