This is a Master's thesis that focuses on finding ways to enhance the psychological safety of designers working in diverse organisational settings. To successfully make suggestions on how to enhance employee wellbeing, we first take a better look at the reasons behind poor workplace satisfaction through existing research, employee surveys and expert interviews. The thesis takes a look at keywords regarding the topic, identifying patterns from existing research and data but also making its own suggestions and remarks on how to take care of the wellbeing of design employees mainly on an individual level. These topics serve as the primary focus of the research, revealing the challenges and needs of designers working in diverse organisational contexts.
When we talk about design in particular, we cannot bypass the fact that most people who work in the field, have a very passionate outlook on their work. This reason might also explain why many designers take such pride in their work. Both qualities are often emphasised in design related interviews, articles and even job application posts too. The challenge that comes with the high words is that they place designers in somewhat vulnerable positions in job settings where they and their creations have to go through continuous iteration and criticism. Paying attention to psychological safety is of utmost importance in order to create and maintain sustainable working practices for designers.
The research methodology used in this thesis combines elements of service design including literary research, expert interviews and industry targeted yet anonymous surveys. The results reflect on findings from existing research with some industry specific highlights.
The research findings suggest that, while psychological safety is attainable, careful attention must be paid to the processes, management and workplace standards to reach and maintain it. A balanced working life is a two-sided trade that requires input and effort from both employees and managers alike. It requires active attention, maintenance and structure but pays back in higher job satisfaction, revenue (Pessar & Mitchell, 2024) and lower turnover of staff. All much welcomed and needed elements for companies and employees alike.
Key words: Psychological safety, Empathic Leadership, Design management