Have you ever come across a design—be it a logo, a product, or a piece of artwork—that seemed to suddenly explode in popularity?

It's everywhere. People are talking about it, sharing it, and it feels like the whole world has taken notice. This is what we call a design that has "gone viral," or "out of the circle" as it's sometimes referred to.

But what makes some designs stand out while others fade into the background? It's not just luck; there are clear strategies and elements that contribute to a design's widespread appeal. Let's break down why certain designs capture attention and have a lasting impa

The Power of Simplicity

One of the most common reasons a design "goes viral" is its simplicity. In today's busy world, we are constantly bombarded with information, and our brains naturally gravitate toward things that are easy to understand. Designs that are clean, minimal, and straightforward are often more memorable and shareable.

Think of the Apple logo. It's simple—just an apple with a bite taken out of it—but it communicates everything about the brand: clean, modern, and approachable. A design like this is easy to reproduce, recognize, and connect with, which makes it more likely to spread.

Actionable Tip: When designing something with viral potential, focus on eliminating unnecessary elements. Aim for clarity and simplicity. This approach makes the design more versatile and easier to share.

Emotionally Engaging Designs

A design that stirs up emotion is more likely to be shared. People don't just want to see things—they want to feel something when they engage with a design. Whether it's humor, nostalgia, or inspiration, emotionally resonant designs leave a lasting impression.

Take the "Fearless Girl" statue in New York. It wasn't just the design of the statue itself that got attention, but the powerful message it conveyed about gender equality and women's empowerment. This design went viral because it tapped into deep societal emotions and sparked conversation.

Actionable Tip: When creating a design, ask yourself: What emotion do I want my audience to feel? Make sure your design tells a story or evokes a reaction, whether it's awe, joy, or curiosity.

Innovative Use of Materials and Mediums

Sometimes, what sets a viral design apart is how it is presented. The medium and materials used can completely transform how a design is perceived. For example, digital art that interacts with the environment (like augmented reality) or products that are creatively packaged can spark curiosity and excitement. The use of unexpected materials, such as 3D printing or recyclable materials, can also grab attention in a crowded design world.

A great example of this is the viral success of IKEA's "LÖVA" lamps, which use a laser-cut technique to create intricate designs. These lamps are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly, creating a unique appeal for both design lovers and sustainability advocates.

Actionable Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment with new technologies or materials. Be innovative, but make sure the choice complements your design's overall concept and message.

Universal Appeal

Designs that go viral often have universal qualities. They transcend cultural boundaries, age groups, and even industries. Think about social media campaigns, like the #BlackLivesMatter hashtag or the viral "Ice Bucket Challenge." These designs and concepts appealed to a wide range of people and were easy to participate in, making them go viral in the truest sense.

For products or logos, universal appeal is about creating something that speaks to basic human desires or values. Brands like Nike have mastered this with their designs, appealing to a broad audience through messages of empowerment and achievement.

Actionable Tip: Think about your target audience, but don't limit your design to one specific group. Try to craft something that speaks to larger, universal themes or values. This increases the chances of the design resonating with a wide variety of people.

Timeliness and Relevance

A viral design is often tied to the cultural trends, issues, or social climate of the moment. If a design aligns with current trends, issues, or conversations, it is more likely to be noticed and shared. For example, during the rise of environmental awareness, eco-friendly brands and sustainable designs gained momentum, as they were in tune with public concerns about the planet.

The recent viral success of "greenwashing" awareness campaigns highlights the importance of creating designs that are relevant to the times. These designs connect with pressing issues that people are passionate about, making them more likely to be shared across social platforms.

Actionable Tip: Stay up-to-date with current events and cultural trends. Your design should not only be aesthetically appealing but also socially or politically relevant. Timing is crucial in making a design resonate with a larger audience.

The Role of Social Media and Shareability

In the age of Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, social media has become the engine behind most viral designs. The ability for people to share designs easily is what drives their virality. A good design often has a built-in "shareability" factor—it's visually striking, interesting, and easy for people to engage with.

Take the "Joe Biden 'I Did That' Sticker" that went viral during the U.S. presidency. It was simple, humorous, and became part of a meme culture, driving people to share it and add their own personal touch. This simple design lived on through endless reposts, tweaks, and iterations.

Actionable Tip: Design with shareability in mind. Make sure your design is optimized for social media platforms, with visuals that stand out in a feed and prompts that encourage people to engage and share.

Final Thoughts

The success of viral design is not accidental. It's a combination of factors: simplicity, emotional resonance, innovation, universal appeal, timeliness, and shareability. If you want your designs to "go out of the circle" and spread beyond the immediate audience, focus on these elements. The best designs don't just grab attention—they create a conversation, evoke emotions, and inspire action.

So, the next time you sit down to create something, ask yourself: Is it simple enough to be memorable? Does it speak to emotions or ideas that are relevant right now? And, most importantly, will people want to share it? If you can answer "yes," you might just have a viral design on your hands.