| In May 2003 DIAC embarked on a comprehensive,
cross-disciplinary research study of the Ontario design sector.
The group wanted to create a profile of the design workforce
and to explore the impact of the work of designers on other
sectors in the economy.
DIAC commissioned Meric S. Gertler and Tara Vindorai from
the Department of Geography and the Munk Centre for International
Studies at the University of Toronto, and Corbett Communications
to conduct the research for this project.
In addition to their work, DIAC organized two stakeholder
meetings to discuss emerging issues with design educators,
design practitioners and clients. With the support of the
Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, DIAC
also engaged business leaders from a variety of industry
sectors to participate in a Roundtable on Design and Competitiveness.
The Roundtable provided a forum for the group to explore
current barriers to the use of design and opportunities
for industry to work more closely with designers to strengthen
market positioning and export success.
One of the primary findings of this research project is
that Ontario has a critical mass of designers. But numbers
alone do not equal value. We must transform this expertly
trained, highly creative workforce into a strategic design
hub that will drive innovation and enhance commercialization
outcomes for the province. In its recommendations and Action
Plan, DIAC proposes four critical steps to achieve this
goal.
Strategic Director/Editor: Arlene Gould
Research Coordinator/Assistant Editor: Paola Poletto
Secretariat: Design Exchange
Design: Shikatani Lacroix Design
RESEARCH CONDUCTED BY:
Meric S. Gertler, Tara Vinodrai, Department
of Geography and Munk Centre for International Studies,
University of Toronto
Corbett Communications
Design Industry Advisory Committee
Case studies included in the report have been provided
by the Design Exchange (winners of the 2003 National Post
Design Exchange Awards) and by DIAC association members.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Christine Raissis, Director, Economic
Research and Business Information,
Toronto Economic Development
Bob Séguin and Staff, Ontario Ministry of Economic
Development and Trade
Susan Wright, Partner, The Randolph Group
Participants in DIAC stakeholder sessions
Designers who contributed their photos to the DIAC report
cover
Lynda Chau, Shiny Dime Communications
Shinya Kominami, Inspixel Inc.
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