(b) Jugaad Safari

As Singapore becomes increasingly developed, our definition of design is starting to get progressively more attached to the latest technologies and niche product categories that only a select few can appreciate and participate in. ​

In this action learning experience, ThinkPlace will introduce the concept of Jugaad (Frugal Innovation) through an interactive trail and exploration session that will enable participants to appreciate everyday innovation and embrace the philosophy of Jugaad in their own lives. This project also aims to challenge conventional notions of design and innovation and spark conversations about alternative approaches, fostering greater overall appreciation of design. ​

How might we frame design as an intrinsic ability that anyone can participate in regardless of their resources or status in society, thus recognising the ingenuity that arises from less-than-ideal circumstances?

In this design trail, ThinkPlace will formally introduce the concept of Jugaad through a typology framework as well as an interactive physical trail. Participants will then explore the surrounding area in groups and capture their own Jugaad discoveries, as well as investigate the narratives behind each intervention through conversations with their “designers”.​

At the end of the exploration, participants will regroup and share back their findings and learnings, which will be digitally archived for further publication as a collectively created book.

WHAT PARTICIPANT CAN GAIN FROM THIS WORKSHOP:

• TOOLKIT: Participants will receive a fieldwork toolkit that will aid them in exploring with fresh eyes. We also aim to foster greater appreciation of nuances of design amongst participants, especially outside of typical notions of design ​
• GUIDEBOOK: Through a collaborative effort, we will co-create a “Jugaad Safari Guidebook”, a resource that documents and celebrates instances of Jugaad in Singapore. This product is derived from diverse viewpoints from all walks of life and made accessible to all.​
• MINDSET SHIFT: Shift perspectives from seeing resource constraints as limitations to viewing them as opportunities. Encourage innovation and creative problem-solving by embracing agility over mere efficiency.

About Singapore Design Week

One of Asia’s premier design festivals, Singapore Design Week (SDW) celebrates Singapore’s distinctive brand of creativity, exploring design through three defining festival pillars: Design Futures (the design of the future and the future of design), Design Marketplace (lifestyle trends with a spotlight on Southeast Asia), and Design Impact (innovative solutions for a better world). Organised by the DesignSingapore Council, SDW is a celebration of creativity and innovation, championing thought leadership and showcasing the best of design from Singapore and beyond.
sdw.sg

People of Design

‘People of Design’ honours the everyday visionaries among us who are making meaningful contributions to society through design. They come from all walks of life, but share a collective aspiration to make things better. This year, we invite everyone to join us in uncovering their own design potential to bring new and better outcomes to light – ultimately creating a more liveable and loveable Singapore.”

About the DesignSingapore Council

The DesignSingapore Council’s (Dsg's) vision is for Singapore to be an innovation-driven economy and a loveable city by design. As the national agency that promotes design, our mission is to develop the design sector, help Singapore use design for innovation and growth, and make life better in this UNESCO Creative City of Design. Dsg is a subsidiary of the Singapore Economic Development Board.

designsingapore.org