A designer is many things but their main function is that of a director. A good designer is able to understand the creative process and implement instructions for their designs to be brought to life.

The definition of a design is as follows

designer [dih-zayh-ner]

noun.

1. a person who devises or executes designs
2. schemer, intriguer, or plotter

A designer is a problem solver of the built environment. They take into account the problems that are brought forth for a project and maneuver through a process in order to create a solution. Although the designer implements creativity into their design, they are much  more removed from their work than an artist is. This is because the designer needs to be able to weigh each problem so that they are able to arrive at a solution that has taken into account all constraints. A fine artist generally works hands on with their materials and medium. While the designer has their tools for creating designs, they rarely work with the finished product.

A commonality between designer and artist is that good design and art respond to their context. When designer and artist are able to respond to their environment their work carries much more weight.

“Design is a field of concern, response, and enquiry, as often as decision and consequence. In this sense, good design can both do its job well and speak to us.” – Norman Potter

“What Is A Designer?: Education And Practice” by Norman Potter