Meaning: Herbert Simon, an American economist, political scientist, and cognitive psychologist, is known for his influential work on decision-making and problem-solving. The quote, "The engineer, and more generally the designer, is concerned with how things ought to be - how they ought to be in order to attain goals, and to function," encapsulates Simon's perspective on the role of engineers and designers in shaping the world around us. This quote emphasizes the proactive and goal-oriented nature of engineering and design, highlighting the essential role these professionals play in creating solutions that align with specific objectives and functions.

Central to Simon's viewpoint is the idea that engineers and designers are not merely passive observers or replicators of existing systems, but rather active agents who envision and create new ways for things to be. They are tasked with understanding the desired outcomes and functions and then working to bring those visions to life through their expertise and creativity. This proactive approach aligns with Simon's broader theories on problem-solving, where he emphasized the importance of "satisficing" – finding solutions that are good enough to meet the desired goals, rather than seeking an unattainable ideal.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the responsibility that engineers and designers carry in shaping the built environment and technological artifacts. Their decisions and creations have a direct impact on how people interact with the world, influencing everything from the efficiency of industrial processes to the user experience of consumer products. By focusing on "how things ought to be," they are not only addressing functional requirements but also considering the broader implications of their designs on society, the environment, and human well-being.

Another key aspect of Simon's quote is the implicit recognition of the ethical dimension of engineering and design. The phrase "how they ought to be" suggests a moral and value-based consideration of the designed artifacts. Engineers and designers are not only concerned with technical specifications but also with the broader implications of their work. This aligns with contemporary discussions around ethical design, sustainability, and the social impact of technology, where professionals are increasingly called upon to consider the ethical and moral dimensions of their creations.

In the context of technological innovation, the quote also speaks to the iterative and forward-looking nature of engineering and design. It acknowledges that the "ought to be" is not a static ideal but rather a dynamic and evolving concept. Engineers and designers are constantly striving to improve and innovate, seeking new ways to achieve goals and functions more effectively, efficiently, and sustainably. This forward-looking mindset is essential in fields such as software development, where rapid advancements and changing user needs require continual adaptation and improvement.

Moreover, Simon's quote implies a close relationship between design and purpose. It suggests that the "ought to be" is intimately tied to the intended goals and functions of the designed artifact. This aligns with the principles of human-centered design, where the needs and experiences of end-users are central to the design process. By understanding the goals and functions from the user's perspective, engineers and designers can create solutions that are not only technically sound but also meaningful and valuable to those who interact with them.

In conclusion, Herbert Simon's quote captures the proactive, goal-oriented, and ethical nature of engineering and design. It emphasizes the responsibility of professionals to envision and create solutions that align with specific objectives and functions, while also considering the broader societal and ethical implications of their work. This perspective resonates with contemporary discussions around ethical design, sustainability, and human-centered innovation, highlighting the enduring relevance of Simon's insights in the field of engineering and design.