School of Systems

What is the
School of Systems?

The School of Systems helps you to put your Flexible Visual Systems knowledge into practice. From tools to workflows, it provides the skills needed to apply a systemic approach across a variety of design disciplines.

Our program is live now: 13 workshops and courses running September through December, taught by the best system design teachers from around the world. This is just the beginning: we’re building the School of Systems step by step, opening new pathways across all areas of system design. 

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Our Teachers:

Coordination

The School of Systems is a (very) small group of people who deeply care about education as a result of social interaction. We are not a big corporation with no face, and we do not offer pre-recorded material to make you study in isolation. We are building learning communities around system design. If you have any questions that our FAQ does not answer, do not hesitate to contact our Franziska: franziska(at)schoolofsystems.org

Franziska’s deep curiosity for how people connect and create meaning together led her to bring people together. With stations at Fontshop, Monotype, and Adobe, she worked at the intersection of visual design, community, and creative technology.

Academic Direction

Founding the School of Systems is a dream coming true. Martin already fantasised about the curriculum of a design school based on a systemic lens when working on his doctoral thesis. A coordinated program leading designers from an education in craft to a purposeful use of it. The current curriculum is just the early beginnings of this exciting journey. You can contact Martin at: martin(at)schoolofsystems.org

Martin is the grandson, son, and nephew of teachers. His escape plan from this family tradition was to become a graphic designer. He was only partly successful. While founding the design Studio TwoPoints.Net with Lupi Asensio and raising two boys, he wrote a doctoral dissertation on systems in design, which led to the long-seller Flexible Visual Systems, translated into English, Spanish, and Japanese. Martin became a teacher in 2003. He has taught at dozens of European Universities since then. 

What is the School of Systems?
The School of Systems is a learning platform for designers, creatives, and professionals interested in understanding and applying systems thinking in design. We offer live courses and workshops that combine practical exercises, real-world examples, and opportunities to connect and grow with a creative community.

Why should I join a course?
To learn practical design and systems-thinking skills from experienced instructors.
To receive direct feedback on your work and develop your skills effectively.
To connect with a community of like-minded creatives and find inspiration.
To practice on real projects and apply your knowledge beyond theory.
To structure your creative practice and stay motivated.

Who are the courses for?
Our courses are designed for designers, creative professionals, and anyone interested in learning about design and business systems, whether you are a beginner or experienced practitioner.

How long are the courses?
Workshops are two days and courses run for 6 weeks, with one live session per week. Each session lasts 2–2.5 hours and includes input from the instructor as well as practical exercises.

What languages are the courses taught in?
All courses are taught in English.

How many participants are there per session?
Sessions typically have 15–20 participants to ensure meaningful interaction and personalized feedback.

What do I need to participate (tech, software, camera, microphone)?
You need a computer with a stable internet connection, a webcam, a microphone, and the software required for the course (details are provided before the session). And pen and paper!

Which platforms do you use for live sessions and the course?
We primarily Google Meet for live sessions. All course materials and resources are hosted on Google.

Can I ask questions or get feedback on my work during the course?
Absolutely. Courses are interactive, and instructors provide feedback on exercises and projects during the live sessions. In some courses, participants also have the opportunity to post exercises and projects in the course community to receive additional feedback.

Is there supporting material or assignments between sessions?
Yes, courses include assignments, exercises, and reading materials to reinforce learning between sessions.

Can I connect with other participants?
Yes, we encourage networking and provide channels for communication, discussion, and collaboration.

Can I stay in touch or collaborate on projects after the course?
Yes, participants are welcome to continue engaging with the community and collaborate on projects beyond the course.

Will I receive an invoice?
Yes, invoices are provided for all course payments.

Will I receive a certificate of completion?
Not at the moment, but we may consider offering certificates in the future.