Design Thinking and Relentless Innovation: The Legacy of the Roman Legion
The Roman military, renowned as the most formidable institution of the ancient world, played a pivotal role in Rome’s remarkable transformation from a humble village to a Mediterranean superpower. At the heart of this success were proud and innovative thinkers at every level of the ranks. These individuals possessed a meticulous and practical approach, making informed decisions and effectively addressing challenges. Their problem-solving methods were marked by practicality, persistence, and an unwavering determination to find solutions. Defeat was not an option for them.
To understand the Roman legion, a brief introduction is necessary. It evolved alongside Rome for almost 1000 years, making its definition a challenging task. A legion is the largest unit in the Roman army, comprising around 5000 combat troops and support personnel.
As a design thinking practitioner, I delved into the philosophical nature of the Roman military through the lens of a UX designer. Their remarkable military success was influenced by factors such as politics, diplomacy, and advancements in resources and infrastructure. In this article, I will highlight renowned military devices and practices that showcase the pioneering design thinking principles of the Roman legion. By examining design thinking in the Roman context, we can uncover enduring principles that have shaped successful enterprises throughout history.
The Roman legion: A triumph of design thinking principles
At every rank, the Roman military embraced a life filled with relentless challenges and hardships. Contrary to common misconceptions, they were not always greedy aggressors but instead sought to avoid conflicts whenever possible. Their adversaries were equally aggressive, prompting the Romans to defend their peace while also hoping for de-escalation. The Romans did not always have sheer superior strength. Instead, they had generals who were astute, strategic, and innovative thinkers. (Not just armchair strategists.) Under their leadership, Rome endured devastating defeats and emerged stronger, particularly in conflicts against the Carthaginian forces.
The success of the Romans can be attributed to their philosophical approach to problem-solving and early adoption of design thinking principles. They prioritized outcomes, embraced continuous reinvention, and valued diverse perspectives across all ranks, distinguishing the Roman legions from their adversaries. Their example serves as an inspiration for us to adopt a similar mindset, employing meticulous and practical approaches, making informed decisions, and demonstrating unwavering resolve in our own design endeavors.
Meet the engineers
With military obligations behind them, these distinguished engineers wholeheartedly dedicate themselves to the pursuit of designing and inventing ingenious contrivances. Their purpose is clear: to guide the Roman army towards resounding triumph.
These unsung heroes pass down their knowledge and skills to the next generation, creating a lasting legacy and unmatched confidence that no other adversaries can rival.
1) Caesar’s first bridge over the Rhine
A) Problem
In 55 BC, Julius Caesar set up a camp in Gaul for 40,000 soldiers. The Ubii, Roman allies, requested his military assistance against the formidable Suebi tribe. Acting promptly, Caesar called upon skilled engineers. Although the Ubii offered boats, Caesar decided to demonstrate his troops’ might by marching them across the Rhine River.
B) Solution
The engineers faced the challenge of finding a suitable narrow area in the river for the bridge. They had to consider the risks posed by strong currents in narrower sections and the presence of large boulders. To address these obstacles, they chose a deep section and constructed sturdy pyres. These pyres were hammered into the riverbed and slanted inwards on both sides of the bridge, offering resistance against the powerful currents. Furthermore, additional support was provided by driving in piles at oblique angles. This strategic design ensured the bridge’s stability and durability amidst challenging conditions.
C) Outcome
The entire process was completed in a remarkable 10 days, astonishing both allies and enemies. Caesar achieved his military objectives with minimal resistance from the enemy. After 18 days, he crossed the bridge once again, only to destroy it afterwards. He effectively conveyed a message to his enemies, demonstrating his ability to bring the war to their territory at his command.
D) Iteration
Caesar and his legions constructed the second bridge, near the first one, to return to Gaul, completing it in just two days. This showcases their expertise in maneuvering with water and commitment to infrastructure development. The Roman sidewalk in Iron Gates on the Danube gorge stands as a testament to their engineering mastery, benefiting both warfare and commerce. Civilian life also flourished with the utilization of military engineering, including highways, bridges, and aqueducts.
2) Boarding devices to capture enemy’s warships
A) Problem
Around 270 BC, as the Romans expanded their control over the Italian Peninsula, a clash with Carthage became inevitable. Carthage, known for its naval supremacy and trade dominance, posed a formidable challenge. Prior to the conflict, the Romans relied on allies for naval support. However, recognizing the urgency, they quickly responded by constructing their own navy in a remarkable feat of engineering. In just 60 days, they reverse-engineered Carthaginian warships, equipping themselves with similar vessels. Yet, the Romans faced another obstacle — their lack of naval experience compared to their Carthaginian adversaries. In the face of this challenge, the Romans sought innovative solutions to level the playing field.
B) Solution — The Mighty Corvus, Rome’s Ingenious Boarding Bridge
During the 1st Punic War, the corvus emerged as a significant asset for the Romans, compensating for their weakness at sea and bolstering their morale despite its flawed design. This innovative device, resembling a bridge, could be raised vertically and then lowered onto an approaching enemy ship, securing the two vessels together with pikes. With the corvus in place, the formidable Roman infantry would swiftly board the enemy ship, transforming the battle into a land-based confrontation in their favor.
C) Outcome
The corvus proved to be a successful tool, enabling the Romans to capture enemy vessels and inflict psychological damage on their adversaries. However, its significant weight posed challenges for Roman ships, impacting their stability and maneuverability, particularly in stormy conditions. As a result, Rome suffered the loss of two fleets. Nevertheless, the corvus played a crucial role in establishing Roman dominance in the Mediterranean and securing their first province, Sicily.
D) Iteration - The Harpax, Rome’s Catapulted Grappling
Around 220 years later, the harpax emerged as a significant breakthrough, surpassing the corvus in Roman naval warfare. Agrippa is renowned for inventing this formidable advancement, which revolutionized sea battles. The harpax allowed the Romans to deploy their powerful artillery with precision, addressing concerns of weight and accuracy over extended distances. This pivotal invention played a vital role in Agrippa and Octavian’s triumphant recapture of Sicily, a crucial grain source for Rome, thereby averting the potential for civil unrest.
3) Legionaries’ Well-being: Military Camps and “Marian Mules”
A) Problem
As the Romans expanded their territories, their military campaigns took them far from the comforts of Rome for extended periods. Ensuring the well-being of their legionaries became a top priority for commanders, recognizing that successful warfare depended on optimal conditions and the soldiers’ physical and mental state. A pressing concern arose: the need for a secure refuge where the soldiers could rest and eat without the constant threat of enemy ambush or attack.
B) Solution
The Castrum, a legionary camp, held a pivotal position in design and organization, serving as a foundation for discipline and soldier well-being. This practice facilitated the rapid deployment of 4,800 refreshed soldiers, providing the Romans with an early advantage in conflicts. Each night, following the day’s march, a standardized blueprint guided the construction of legionary camps, ensuring ample rest for the soldiers and showcasing their disciplined presence to intimidate enemies.
C) Outcome
Psychologically sound and well-rested legionaries possessed a distinct advantage over their adversaries. The Romans’ ability to swiftly construct camps resembling cities within a matter of hours not only astounded their enemies but also dampened their motivation to engage the highly disciplined Roman forces in combat.
D) Iteration
Marius revolutionized mobility by implementing a system where legionaries carried their own supplies, reducing the dependence on servants and cargo during early stages of renovation.
As the Roman Empire reached its zenith, military camps of varying sizes served different roles as the empire’s military strategy evolved. Despite their diverse purposes, these camps adhered to blueprints that prioritized soldier well-being and operational efficiency.
4) The Helmet
A) Problem
In the midst of the tumultuous battlefield, where the clash of weapons echoed, the soldiers placed great importance on the clear directives given by their centurions. Yet, the earlier versions of Roman helmets proved to be a hindrance, impeding the soldiers’ ability to discern crucial commands, including orders to retreat. This communication obstacle exposed the soldiers to unnecessary dangers, escalating the risk of severe casualties and potential fatalities.
B) Solution
The introduction of the Imperial Gallic Helmet transformed the battlefield experience for Roman legionnaires. This innovative design included an improved neck guard, offering enhanced protection against potential threats. The helmet also featured advanced elements, such as a sloped neck guard with ribbing at the nape, an opening for improved hearing, and projecting ear guards.
C) Outcome
The Imperial Gallic Helmet not only increased safety but also ensured better situational awareness in the midst of combat. Over centuries, the Roman helmet evolved to enhance performance, protection, and audibility. Its innovative design, incorporating an improved neck guard, not only provided enhanced protection but also allowed legionaries to hear commands clearly and maintain situational awareness amidst the chaos of battle. This development significantly bolstered their effectiveness.
D) Iteration
As time progressed, Roman helmets underwent further advancements, driven by a dual purpose: ensuring safety and showcasing prestige with elaborate decorations. Cavalrymen, in particular, benefited from helmets tailored to their specific needs, providing functional advantages while also exuding a sense of pride. The Romans, far from hesitating to adopt ideas from other cultures, embraced the opportunity to borrow and modify, infusing these helmets with their own unique identity. The result was a blend of practicality and distinctive design, exemplifying the Romans’ ingenuity and determination to excel in both form and function.
5) The Powerful Pilum and Impenetrable Scutum
A) Problem
In the early Republic, the Roman military confronted formidable Samnite adversaries in treacherous terrains. The traditional phalanx legion, with its rigid formation and lengthy pikes, proved ineffective. To counter this, the Romans introduced the versatile maniple legion, featuring smaller infantry units and cavalry support. This innovation allowed them to navigate challenging landscapes and engage in tactical warfare with flexibility. Yet, their pursuit of tactical excellence persisted.
B) Solution
The Pilum, a Roman javelin, strikes fear and disarray into enemies. Its barbed tip securely lodges in the adversary’s shield, rendering it useless and forcing abandonment. Ingeniously designed, the pilum’s flexible spearhead prevents foes from returning the weapon.
Accompanying this formidable javelin is the Scutum, a meticulously crafted shield offering extensive coverage and reinforced with iron for enhanced defense. Through these remarkable weapons, the Romans showcase their tactical brilliance and mastery of warfare.
C) Outcome
The Pilum played a crucial role in demoralizing the enemy and deterring further conflict. By swiftly neutralizing adversaries in early engagements, the Romans effectively minimized casualties. They also discovered that taking the offensive stance increased their chances of victory compared to defensive and reactive strategies. The Pilum emerged as an unrivaled offensive weapon, solidifying the Romans’ dominance on the battlefield.
D) Iteration
In the late Republic period, the pilum underwent significant modifications. Legionaries began carrying multiple pila, utilizing them as a strategic tool to disorient their enemies before engaging them with the gladius, the official legionary sword. These adaptations not only reduced the weight of the pilum but also aligned it with evolving Roman military tactics, showcasing the ingenuity of Roman warfare.
So what can we learn from the Roman army?
The Romans exemplified the essence of master design thinkers and relentless innovators, distinguishing themselves from their adversaries. Their confidence, patience, and unwavering commitment to improvement laid the groundwork for their exceptional military prowess and lasting impact. By fearlessly embracing new ideas and eagerly learning from their rivals, they shaped their identity and charted a path to success. The Romans harnessed the power of innovation, leaving an enduring imprint on history. Their visionary mindset and relentless pursuit of excellence propelled them to greatness, forging a legacy that their enemies could never replicate.
Illustrations created by Jin Leem
Jin Leem is a UX and visual designer at IBM based in Research Triangle Park. The above article is personal and does not necessarily represent IBM’s positions, strategies or opinions.
