Where does form language come from?
I think we can all agree that form development is an important step in the design process. But when it comes to deciding how a product concept should look and feel, what do we base that decision on?
I've identified a few sources of form:
Inspiration. The forms of the product are influenced by the design of an unrelated object.
Form follows function. The functionality of the product dictates the appropriate forms.
Vibe. An aesthetic is created to match a mood that the team wants the product to embody.
Strategy. A set of success criteria is established for the product to fulfill its objective. The forms satisfy the criteria.
Visual Brand Language (VBL). The product's brand already has a system of visual elements and design principles it uses to create a cohesive and recognizable identity. The forms of new concepts adhere to it.
For our projects, we're almost always sourcing our form language from VBL and strategy.
I believe the form source depends on what kind of companies you're working with.