America by Design Initiative to Modernize Federal Service Interfaces
Impact Score: 3.2
Timeline: Initial results by July 4, 2026; termination of temporary organization by August 21, 2028
Summary: The executive order launches the “America by Design” initiative aimed at improving the usability, aesthetics, and efficiency of federal digital and physical services. A National Design Studio and Chief Design Officer are established within the White House to lead and coordinate design improvements across agencies, standardizing design through updates to the U.S. Web Design System. Agencies must collaborate and deliver initial design results by mid-2026, with recruitment of top creative talent emphasized. Vanderbilt University may benefit from new research and funding opportunities while needing to monitor potential impacts on existing partnerships.
Key Actions: Vanderbilt’s IT, Computer Science, and Engineering departments should seek collaboration with the National Design Studio, develop digital design programs, and track funding opportunities. The Office of Federal Relations should engage with federal agencies to leverage emerging partnerships.
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