In a significant move to modernize the interaction between Americans and their government, President Donald Trump has announced the launch of a national initiative known as “America by Design.”
This initiative aims to enhance the usability and aesthetic appeal of federal services, focusing on both digital and physical spaces.
In a formal order issued from the White House on August 21, 2025, President Trump emphasized the importance of improving government digital services, stating that the current systems often result in wasted time and unnecessary financial costs.
“America has long led the world in innovation, technological advancement, and design,” Trump noted. “But with a sprawling ecosystem of digital services offered to Americans, the Government has lagged behind in usability and aesthetics.”
To facilitate this ambitious redesign effort, the administration will establish a new office known as the National Design Studio (NDS), which will be situated within the White House Office of the Executive Office of the President.
This studio will be directed by a Chief Design Officer, who will play a crucial role in collaborating with executive departments and agencies to bring fresh and innovative solutions to the forefront.
The Chief Design Officer will be tasked with recruiting top creative talent from various sectors, ensuring that federal agencies can leverage expertise from the private sector to enhance public services.
“This effort will be facilitated by a new Chief Design Officer, who will help recruit top creative talent, coordinate with executive departments and agencies, and devise innovative solutions,” the order states.
The America by Design initiative aims to deliver experiences that are visually appealing and efficient, reflecting President Trump’s commitment to improving the quality of life for citizens through better access to government services.
According to the executive order, the NDS will assist agencies in minimizing redundancies in design costs and employing standardized solutions that can bolster public trust in essential services.
The initiative will span various areas where Americans interact with their government, starting with high-traffic websites and public services that significantly impact daily life.
Moving forward, heads of federal agencies are required to work with the Chief Design Officer to implement changes at their respective organizations, with an emphasis on producing initial results by July 4, 2026.
The order specifies that agency heads should prioritize enhancing websites and physical locations that are central to Americans’ everyday experiences.
To further support this initiative, the Administrator of General Services will collaborate with the Chief Design Officer to update the United States Web Design System in line with the directive.
Additionally, compliance with the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act will be a focal point, ensuring that all government digital engagements meet the highest standards of user experience.
“The Chief Design Officer shall consult with thought leaders and research and design firms on how best to implement the America by Design initiative,” the order outlines.
This initiative marks a forward-thinking approach to government services, recognizing that an aesthetically pleasing and functional design can significantly improve user engagement and satisfaction among American citizens.
Commenting on his vision for the initiative, Trump added, “It is time to fill the digital potholes across our Nation,” a clear acknowledgment of the challenges existing within the current government digital frameworks.
The process of implementation is broad and includes provisions for using all relevant hiring authorities to attract talented professionals who can contribute creatively to the redesign of government services.
Furthermore, the Chief Design Officer will work closely with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to ensure an organized approach within federal agencies as they adopt the changes proposed under this initiative.
While the detailed rollout plan remains to be outlined, the establishment of the NDS and the appointment of the Chief Design Officer underscore a commitment to evolving government services in a way that truly serves the American public.
In closing, the order asserts, “This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations,” reflecting the need for practical execution within the bounds of federal regulations and funding availability.
As the America by Design initiative unfolds, all eyes will be on how effectively the federal government can transform its digital and physical services to better serve the needs of its citizens, enhancing accessibility and fostering a stronger connection between the government and the public.
image source from：whitehouse
