This research paper focuses on the intersection and powerful relationship between graphic design and social change. Graphic designers are in a position where they have the opportunity to explore, utilize, and should thereby employ interdisciplinary research approaches to better empower their audience to act.

The paper studies graphic design by considering six aspects: the discipline of graphic design and its process; the different functions it serves; its impact on society; the role it plays in misinformation; its role for social good; and the evolution of graphic design and research. This will confirm the research gap that exists within the discipline.

To set the context, the research continues to explore the realm of social change through its definition, its relation to wicked problems, and its driving factors. The paper will then explore the field of design activism by offering different perspectives on it and outlining examples of graphic design’s role in the field; this will confirm the suspected gap between awareness and action within the context of social change.

Next, the paper will discuss design research and highlight areas of opportunities where the graphic design process could be advanced. To target these areas, this paper will suggest interdisciplinary research approaches including: Human Factors, Causal Layered Analysis, Co-design, and STEEPV analysis. In addressing this gap in research, one can draw their attention to the awareness-to-action gap, ultimately leading to more empowered design solutions.

Keywords: Graphic design, social change, design activism, design research, awareness-to-action gap, interdisciplinary research