A practical, illustrated guide to using the tools of design to
create feelings of inclusion, collaboration, and respect in groups of
any type or size--a classroom, a work team, an international
organization--from Stanford University's d.school.
"This is a beautiful book. Wise has applied the gift and imagination
and lenses of the d.school to one of our most precious questions: how to
create belonging."--Priya Parker, author of the Art of Gathering and
host of the New York Times podcast Together Apart
Belonging brings out the best in everyone. Whether you're a parent,
teacher, community organizer, or leader of any sort, your group is
unlikely to thrive if the individuals don't feel welcomed, included, and
valued for who they are.
The good news is that you can use design to create feelings of inclusion
in your organization: rituals that bring people together, spaces that
promote calm, roles that create a sense of responsibility, systems that
make people feel respected, and more. You can't force feelings, but in
Design for Belonging, author and educator Susie Wise explains how to
use simple levers of design to set the stage for belonging to emerge.
For example, add moveable furniture to a meeting space to customize for
your group size; switch up the role of group leader regularly to
increase visibility for everyone; or create a special ritual for people
joining or leaving your organization to welcome fresh perspectives and
honor work well done.
Inspiration and stories from leaders and scholars are paired with
frameworks, tools, and tips, providing an opportunity to try on
different approaches. By the end of the book, you'll be able to spot
where a greater sense of belonging is needed and actively shape your
world to cultivate it--whether it's a party, a high-stakes meeting, or a
new national organization.
