The Social Designer’s Paradox

You want to change the world? Turns out the system isn’t built for that.

The Social Designer’s Paradox is a candid, compelling companion for anyone trying to make change from within public systems.

Social designers step into government and institutions full of creativity, care, and bold ideas—only to meet the reality of bureaucracy, politics, outdated structures, and a whole different language. This book explores why people who want to shake things up often struggle in systems designed to keep things steady—and what they can do about it.

Through sharp insights, honest conversations, and a touch of humor, the book unpacks the tensions between designing and governing. It challenges the idea that design is just a process, and helps you express your value clearly—without jargon, and without losing your principles.

This is not a step-by-step guide. It’s a thoughtful companion for the messy, meaningful work of making change—especially from the inside.

For designers, civil servants, rebels-in-residence, and anyone working toward a more responsive and imaginative public sector.

Author

Willemijn Brouwer holds a Master’s in Strategic Product Design from TU Delft. As a lecturer in creativity with over 15 years of experience in the public domain, she inspires students to explore design in complex systems. She is an expert in facilitating creative processes within government and public organizations.