Design has a central role innovation and creativity. It is increasingly important as a contributor to organisational growth both in the public and in the private sector. As such, the knowledge and skills in leading design thinking in organisations is a valuable asset across all industry sectors. We are exploring the many ways in which design thinking and design methods relate and contribute to problems of managing and organizing. This research aims at developing design theories, educational programmes and professional design and management practices.
Our research encompasses the application of design management thinking and practice to a broad range of situations and environments. Looking strategically at the role of design in policy and also the role of design consultancy and practice in the UK economy. We also undertake work addressing design management in sectors (health, education, manufacturing, construction and service) and in organisations public and private. We are particularly interested in understanding process, teams and organisational issues with regard to design management, as well as the impact of digital technology on the management of design. Finally we link ethical and sustainability issues into our work by investigating the nature of socially responsible design and its relationship to corporate social responsibility.
