The following outline is provided as an overview of a topical guide to design:

Design (as a verb: designing, or, to design) is the intentional creation of a plan or specification for the construction or manufacturing of an object or system or for the implementation of an activity or process. Design (as a noun: a design) can refer to such a plan or specification (e.g. a drawing or other document) or to the created object, etc., and features of it such as aesthetic, functional, economic or socio-political.^[1]

• Architecture – An Architect typically has a B.Arch or M.Arch, as well as professional certification through groups such as the NCARB. Their primary focus is the design of buildings.
• Engineering – An Engineer typically has a BS or MS degree, as well as professional certification as a Professional Engineer. They primarily focus on applyi. No professional certification is required. Their primary focus is the design of apparel.
• Graphic design – A Graphic Designer typically has a BFA or MFA. No professional certification is required. Their primary focus is the design of visual communication.
• Industrial design – An Industrial Designer typically has a BFA or MFA. No professional certification is required. Their primary focus is the design of physical, functional objects.
• Interior design – An Interior Designer typically has a Bachelor's degree. No professional certification is required. Their primary focus is the design of human environment, particularly affecting aesthetics and emotions.
• Software design – A Software designer typically has a BS or MS degree in computer science. While professional certification is not required, many exist. Their primary focus is the functional design of computer software.

• Co-Design
• Creative problem solving
• Creativity techniques
• Design-build
• Design for X
• Design management
• Design methods
• Design Science
• Design thinking
• Engineering design process
• Error-tolerant design
• Fault tolerant design
• Functional design
• Metadesign
• Mind mapping
• Open-design movement
• Participatory design
• Reliable system design
• Strategic design
• TRIZ
• Universal design
• User innovation

• Creativity
• Design methods
• Design thinking

• European Design Awards
• Chartered Society of Designers