The book is almost here!
The essential guide to design leadership. Everything the role demands, in 30 topics, with proven business concepts and best practices you can put to work in your own team. Available on Amazon from November 2026. Subscribe to be there for the launch.
Stop Reacting. Start Leading.
Most design leaders come to their roles through talent and craft. They are strong designers. Then, one day, they find themselves in charge of a team, a function, or an organization. What often comes as a surprise is how multifaceted that leadership work is, and how little their design education and previous work experience have prepared them for it.
This book was written to fill that gap. Based on research and experience, The Design Leadership Framework goes beyond design craft and expertise to describe what the role actually entails.
Organized around 30 essential topics in design leadership, it provides one of the most comprehensive practical views of the field. It covers everything from leading and developing a team to setting direction, ensuring quality, improving design operations, and strengthening design’s influence at the executive table.
For each topic, you will find proven leadership concepts and best practices to help you shape your approach. This book is both a guide to developing your leadership practice and a reference you can return to as your role evolves. The framework can also be used as a practical tool: to assess your organization, sharpen your strategy, and clarify leadership roles.
Whether you are new to the role or experienced, whether you lead a small team or a large design organization, this book will help you lead with more clarity, structure, and intent.
About the Author
Katharina Koberdamm is a design leadership consultant with nearly two decades of experience. As a user experience designer and design strategist, she has worked in a variety of industries. Her work spans digital products and services, cross-functional team leadership, and broader strategic initiatives. She coaches design leaders individually, teaches at universities, and hosts her own annual leadership retreat.
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