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**.

• The article encourages **designers** to embrace copying as a valuable tool, recognizing its potential to foster creativity, push boundaries, and propel progress.