Standing Man & Co.

Hello, my name is Douglas.

I design the way things work. I’ve been practicing design since 2004, service design since 2011 and as a freelancer since 2014.

My approach to designing services is defined by:

  1. my very practical approach, hands on, with lots of making and testing;
  2. sustainability;
  3. a code of design ethics;
  4. total inner consent (please, ask me what that means).
A portrait photo of Douglas helman

Some hats I've worn (and continue to wear)

  • Service Designer
  • Senior Sustainability Consultant
  • Critic
  • Moderator
  • Tutor
  • Assessor
  • Technical Marketer
  • International Sales Manager
  • Industrial Designer
  • Lecturer
  • Father of three
  • Expat

What I've studied

Master of Science in Environmental Management and Policy
International Institute for Industrial, Environmental Economics, Lund University, Sweden

Bachelor in Industrial Design
1st Class Honours
Sue Park Memorial Prize
University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia

Nice things others have said about me

“Doug helps people look at and think through the problems right in front of them.”

“Everyone needs a Doug on their shoulder – challenging the status quo, spotlighting blind spots, and helping turn complexity into clarity.”

“The biggest reason for enjoying working with Doug was that he is not afraid of setting ambitious goals and working hard to achieve them.”

“Doug is real joy to work with. He is blessed with a sharp mind, excellent creative skills and the ability to grasp complex technical concepts.”

“Your first meeting with Doug will convince you of his infectious enthusiasm which has been present every day I have known him.”

“Douglas is very ambitious and thorough. he completes tasks quickly and with large depth and background checks on all information.”

“Doug’s professional attitude and capability to work with experts of different fields is extraordinary. Blended with his great ides, inspiring character and reliable nature, he definitely adds value to the tasks he is working on.”

“I trust Doug’s judgement as a designer and as a person, and have seen his scope for thinking increase further as he works through challenging issues. He observes constructive criticism, and equally defends his position in a considered and respectful manner.”