“Design is creativity in service of others.” These words from Margaret Gould Stewart, who shapes how we see and use Facebook, are really interesting. Every time we create something, it affects someone, whether they realize it or not. Our designs and creations have value and can make a difference.

In her TED Talk, Stewart, who is now Facebook’s Director of Product Design, shares what goes on behind the scenes at one of the world’s biggest websites. She talks about how her team works for months on small changes, like redesigning the Facebook Like button. You might think a tiny button is easy to change, but Stewart says, “When you’re designing for so many people, no detail is too small… this button is seen over 220 billion times a day.” With an audience as big as one-sixth of the world’s population, people’s reactions can vary. Some might not notice or care, while others might find it hard to adjust. Stewart jokes that she spends almost as much time introducing changes as she does making them, like when YouTube switched from a 5-star rating to thumbs up/thumbs down.

Stewart also points out that not everyone uses Facebook. She emphasizes the need to design for all users, including those with older devices and browsers. “Designing for low-end cell phones isn’t glamorous,” she says, “but if you want to design for everyone, you have to think about where people are, not just where you are.”

It’s a fascinating talk that’s even better the more you watch. So go ahead and enjoy!

Signing Off,

Roey