SEGD Conference Recap: Elevating the Future of Experiential Design
The 2024 SEGD Conference Experience Dallas brought together the most dynamic voices in the world of experiential graphic design, creating a powerful platform for inspiration, innovation, and collaboration. This year’s event was nothing short of transformative, offering a unique space for design professionals to explore the future of experience design and its role in shaping human interactions with spaces, technology, and the environment. With a blend of visionary keynotes, hands-on learning, and opportunities to connect with fellow practitioners, the SEGD Conference delivered a rich and immersive experience that continues to drive the industry forward.
Inspiring Keynotes: Expanding the Boundaries of Design
At the heart of the 2024 SEGD Conference Experience Dallas were the inspiring keynote presentations, led by thought leaders who challenged attendees to think beyond traditional design paradigms. Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, Chief Director of Center for BrainHealth at The University of Texas at Dallas, and Dr. Upali Nanda, EVP and Global Sector Director for Innovation of HKS, both captivated the audience by exploring the intersection of neuroscience and design. Their sessions highlighted the vital importance of creating spaces that support cognitive well-being and stimulate brain health. As one attendee remarked, “Understanding the health of my brain was something I didn’t realize I needed to hear at a design conference, but it was an essential and eye-opening takeaway.”
These keynotes set the tone for the entire event, reinforcing the idea that design must evolve to meet the needs of a changing world, where empathy, cognitive health, and environmental stewardship are at the forefront. Another attendee noted, “We need to design spaces with brain health in mind. The keynotes were a game-changer in how we think about experience design’s impact on human well-being.”
The Importance of Place: Dallas as a Design Catalyst
An exciting theme throughout the conference was the deep connection to place, beautifully introduced by Harry Mark, FAIA, Executive Director and Principal of RSM Design, in his session “Dallas Design: The Good, The Bad, and the Very, Very Ugly.” Mark guided attendees through a fascinating exploration of Dallas’s unique design legacy, from quirky “Big Hat Houses” to authentically Texan architecture. For many, Mark’s session was a favorite, introducing them to a deeper appreciation of the city’s rich and sometimes eccentric design history. “Harry’s talk gave me a new understanding of Dallas and its creative spirit. It really connected me to the city in a way I didn’t expect,” said one attendee.
This emphasis on place extended beyond the sessions, as participants explored the city’s diverse offerings, from the innovation at the AT&T Discovery District to world-class museums, the iconic State Fair, and the vibrant food scene. Attendees were especially enthusiastic about the fun and memorable cultural experiences, like two-step dancing. One attendee summed it up: “The diversity of experiences in Dallas made this conference so special—exploring the city was a surprising and delightful discovery!”
Learning Through Collaboration and Product Exploration
Beyond the inspiration from keynote speakers, the SEGD Conference offered attendees numerous practical learning opportunities through workshops, panel discussions, and the ever-popular NEXPO show. For many, the event’s strength lies in its ability to combine big-picture thinking with actionable insights. Attendees had the chance to dive deep into topics like accessibility in design, sustainability, and integrating technology into physical environments. “I gained insights into creating engaging exhibitions with dynamic display panels and interactive installations, while also enhancing my visual literacy,” shared a museum curator who found immense value in the sessions.
NEXPO, featuring the latest tools and innovations from industry-leading vendors, allowed attendees to connect with product specialists, discover new materials, and explore technologies that will shape the future of experiential design. One attendee said, “The NEXPO show was fantastic—it featured so much new tech and great vendors that I can immediately apply to my projects.”
Networking with Purpose: Building Lasting Collaborations
A signature strength of the SEGD Conference is the emphasis on community and networking. The 2024 SEGD Conference Experience Dallas provided a space where design professionals at every level could connect, share insights, and collaborate on new ideas. Whether catching up with longtime peers or meeting new collaborators, the event offered a rare opportunity for deep, meaningful exchanges. “Networking with our community is always useful, but this year I really felt like I strengthened relationships and made new ones that will impact my business for years to come,” commented an attendee.
The structured networking opportunities, such as the New Member Meet Up, EXP Mentor sessions and the Professional Practice Group (PPG) meetups, gave participants an intentional way to forge partnerships and explore future projects. As one designer put it, “It’s the people, it’s the people, it’s the people. The connections I made here will drive future collaborations in a way that’s unique to SEGD.”
Practical Takeaways for Design Businesses
The SEGD Conference was more than just a place for inspiration—it was a place for action. Attendees walked away with practical insights they could immediately apply to their businesses and design practices. From learning about carbon-neutral initiatives to deepening their understanding of how experiential design can shape human behavior, many found themselves energized to implement new ideas. “This conference gave me a deeper understanding of the future of experiential design, especially around sustainability and environmental impact,” said one attendee. “I’m excited to incorporate these lessons into my work.”
For many, the focus on practical applications extended to the sessions on design processes and strategies for integrating vendors and collaborators early in project development. “I realized the importance of bringing graphic designers and potential vendor partners into the conversation early to create truly successful design outcomes,” shared a participant.
Looking to the Future of SEGD
As the 2024 SEGD Conference Experience Dallas wrapped up, it left attendees with a sense of optimism, excitement, and readiness for what lies ahead. One attendee perfectly summed up the sentiment: “My best year is going to be next year.” The conference not only provided a space to explore the latest in experiential design but also inspired a forward-thinking mindset that will continue to shape the work of designers, vendors, and collaborators well into the future.
The 2024 SEGD Conference Experience Dallas was a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the belief that through design, we can elevate the human experience. With a strong foundation of learning, collaboration, and inspiration, attendees are poised to take what they’ve learned and apply it to projects that will push the boundaries of experiential design in new and meaningful ways.
Thank you to Conference Co-Chair Patrick Schmidt for hosting the 2024 SEGD Conference Experience Dallas. And thank you to our Presenting Sponsors Color-Ad and Nanolumens along with all our amazing sponsors and exhibitors for their support in making the SEGD Conference possible.
About SEGD
We are designers of experiences connecting people to place. SEGD is a multidisciplinary community collectively shaping the future of experience design. We are a thought leader and an amplifier in the practice of experience design. Learn more at segd.org.