De Publieke Ontwerppraktijk (PONT)

A Design-Driven Approach to Societal Challenges

Our society is facing significant difficulties, such as polarization, distrust in government, and complex issues like housing shortages and healthcare deficits. These challenges cannot be solved by a single party using a linear approach, leading to many issues feeling gridlocked. A design-driven approach can open up new possibilities. By incorporating diverse perspectives, harnessing the power of imagination, and testing what works in practice, this approach helps to break open systems, explore new directions, and tackle large challenges step by step.

Collaboration Between Government and Design

More and more designers are collaborating with government bodies on societal challenges. These "public design practices" have already produced promising results, but the collaboration can also be challenging. A design approach is mission-oriented, experimental and people-centered, while the government is structured around efficiency and effectiveness. These characteristics can complement each other well, but successful collaboration in public design practices requires careful structuring.

PONT: a Program for Public Design Practices

To strengthen the collaboration between the government and the design sector, the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science has initiated PONT, a program for public design practices. PONT develops the knowledge, organizational culture, and infrastructure needed to effectively apply a design-driven approach within public organizations. Are you tackling societal challenges and striving for even greater impact? Embark on the PONT learning journey. Discover insights, knowledge and tools for public design practices and join our events for learning and collaboration.