Output details

DESIGN IN ACTION. (Research that builds a model for knowledge exchange between industry and academia, using design as a strategy for business growth in Scotland. Disseminated through: Follett G. Marra M. Leading innovation through design. Presentation and Proceedings of the Design Management Institute, DMI 2012, International Research Conference, Boston USA. 8/08/12 - 9/08/12)

A conference paper delivered at the 2012 Design Management Institute conference DMI the lead professional organisation for design internationally, hosts an annual conference. Also the paper was published by connect-open Innovation-Design special interest group (TSB). Follett proposed a model for improving knowledge exchange to meet the complex demands of industrial R&D in Scotland. As the UK government and public policy bodies seek routes back to economic growth, the domestic higher education sector is identified as a source for innovation. The Scottish economy’s particular weaknesses in industrial R&D mean that resultant knowledge exchange is critical. Radical new models and approaches are required for growth if natural strengths are to be exploited and explored. Michael Marra provided the political, business and policy arguments .

The paper describes the theoretical model for a Knowledge Exchange Hub for the Creative Industries, "Design in Action" (DiA, Arts and Humanities Research Council, circa £5million). DiA is a radical innovation model that exploits existing factor endowments in the Scottish economy through the application of design at a strategic level. Follett outlines the methodology, which seeks to produce radical new and near to market processes, services, systems and experiences. By building multidisciplinary teams, from business, professional and academia, she describes how DiA can stimulate knowledge exchange with a view to creating commercial outputs. These will address market opportunities identified through thorough analysis of discreet economic sectors in Scotland. The creative process will be highly facilitated and intensive applying a sophisticated range of design tools.

The research underpinning DiA was wide-ranging analysis of current economic development strategies and policies. UK Governments, papers, Design Council and Design Museum and design businesses. The V&A at Dundee project has been a simultaneous and complimentary reaction to this repositioning of design to a position of prominence in Scottish economic policy and productivity.