The Legacy of Copying: How Apple's Success Began with Inspiration

This article delves into the complex relationship between copying and innovation, using the story of **Apple** as a prime example. We learn that even **Steve Jobs**, known for his revolutionary products and innovative spirit, was not immune to copying. The story of **Apple's** success is intricately tied to its early adoption of the graphical user interface developed by Xerox, a move that propelled **Apple's** rise to prominence.

The article argues that copying is not simply about plagiarism but a vital aspect of the design process, encompassing learning, inspiration, and evolution.

Copying, in its various forms, serves as a catalyst for progress, enabling designers to build upon existing ideas, refine techniques, and push boundaries.

Beyond Apple: The Open Source Movement

The article moves beyond **Apple** to explore the rise of open-source **software** and **design** movements, emphasizing how the principle of copying has become a driving force in these fields. The **open-source** movement, spearheaded by **Richard Stallman** and his vision of **free software**, challenged conventional licensing models and empowered individuals to share, modify, and build upon existing code.

The article highlights the significant role of **Creative Commons** in the **open-source** movement, providing a framework for sharing creative works under permissive licenses, allowing for wider accessibility and collaboration.

It showcases how **Creative Commons** has become a driving force in the sharing of images, educational resources, and **design** elements, fostering a culture of openness and collaboration.

John Carmack: The Power of Copying as a Learning Tool

The article then examines the approach of **John Carmack**, a renowned game developer, who embraced copying as a critical element of his learning process. Carmack's early game, **Commander Keen**, was born out of copying and reverse-engineering the popular **Super Mario Bros. 3**, a move that led him to a deeper understanding of game development and propelled him to the forefront of the industry.

The article emphasizes Carmack's commitment to sharing knowledge and his refusal to patent his innovations, believing that open access and collaboration are essential for progress.

Carmack's approach serves as an inspiring example of how copying can be used as a tool for learning, experimentation, and pushing boundaries in **design**.

The Evolution of Copying in Design

The article explores the evolution of copying in **design**, highlighting the emergence of **design** tools that facilitate sharing and collaboration, effectively embracing the principles of the **open-source** movement. Tools like **Abstract** and **Figma** enable designers to work together on projects, share their creations, and learn from one another, fostering a sense of community and collective knowledge.

The article points to the rise of **Unsplash**, a platform that has become a goldmine for **designers** seeking high-quality images under **Creative Commons** licenses, and **Humaaans**, a collection of **Creative Commons**-licensed **design** elements that facilitate rapid prototyping and iteration.

Unsolicited Redesigns: A Creative Take on Copying

The article discusses the controversial practice of "unsolicited redesigns", where **designers** propose changes to existing websites and apps without being commissioned to do so. This practice embodies the shanzhai approach of copying - an attempt to comment, critique, and inspire.

The article acknowledges the benefits of unsolicited redesigns, such as providing opportunities for **designers** to showcase their skills and explore new ideas.

However, it also recognizes the ethical considerations and criticisms surrounding unsolicited redesigns, highlighting concerns about the lack of context and respect for the original **designers'** work.

The Enduring Importance of Copying

The article concludes with a powerful assertion: copying is an integral part of **design** and innovation. Whether it's learning from existing work, experimenting with new ideas, or simply enjoying the creative process, copying plays a crucial role in shaping the landscape of **design**.