Work With Us
Research
Theory and methods are developed through cooperation with research in the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and other parts of the university, and in projects by the D-Lab alone. The D-Lab follows two models for cooperative research: Fast Solutions and Design for Well-Being. The former leverages existing design frameworks and methods to help solve public health problems in less time. The latter develops theory and methods for a new specialty called design for well-being which includes health, happiness and prosperity. The research is often conducted in the context of themes or application areas. Currently, the D-Lab works with the following themes:Conserving Futures
It deals with 19th century environmental conservation models struggling to respond to 21st century realities. Happy Cities
It explores alternative ways for designing new cities based on well-being,Water Scarcity
It uncovers potential responses to health care organization having no fresh water but still needing to provide care.Information Pollution
It investigates how this once scarce resource has become a multi-facetted hazard.Communication Programs
Classes
Three courses exposing students from five Harvard colleges to design frameworks and methods are in place. Conferences
These are experiences enabled by the D-Lab that are related to knowledge creation and dissemination in design and public health. Fellows
These are for leaders in public health or in design who want to extend our work into practice.Design Audits
The D-Lab analyzes projects and explore ways that design can help individuals and partner organizations. Sprints
These are short intensive workshops in which we use design methods and frameworks to accelerate projects.Coaching Sections
These are for students and faculty who are trying to use aspects of design in their own ventures.