The 2017 Future of Design in Start-Ups survey analyzed over 350 companies to understand how design impacts the tech ecosystem, focusing on design team structures, business integration, and skill evolution. Key findings include that 95% of respondents believe designers should engage directly with business objectives, and design mature companies see greater improvements in sales and retention due to design initiatives. The survey indicates a growing recognition of design's strategic importance within both consumer and enterprise sectors, with companies planning to expand their design teams.