The Daily Future

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the way designers work, learn and create. At the same time, emerging technologies such as quantum computing, synthetic data and organoid intelligence are raising new questions about creativity, authorship, responsibility and the future of design itself. Rather than asking whether these developments are simply utopian or dystopian, the authors explore the more fundamental question of how designers can actively shape desirable digital futures.

Produced as the result of the NADR Knowledge Cycle 2025, The Daily Future brings together nine contributions from researchers and practitioners across a broad range of Universities of Applied Sciences. Through theoretical reflections and real-world case studies, the authors examine how digital technologies are reshaping applied design research, design education and professional practice.

The publication presents diverse perspectives on topics including:

• Generative AI as a design partner and co-researcher;
• Human creativity, authorship and professional identity;
• AI, ethics and public responsibility;
• Critical and adversarial design;
• Cultural diversity and digital sovereignty;
• The future role of designers in an AI-enabled society.

Published in the form of a newspaper, The Daily Future captures a moment in an ongoing conversation. Like a newspaper, it reflects the urgency of today’s debates while recognising that our understanding of these technologies will continue to evolve. Rather than providing definitive answers, the publication invites readers to question assumptions, engage in dialogue and contribute to shaping more humane, democratic and responsible digital futures.

We invite researchers, educators, designers, students and professionals to explore the publication and join the continuing conversation about the future of Applied Design Research.