The use of design in business is increasingly being viewed as an essential strategic tool to gain competitive advantage. Not only does design assist companies to differentiate their products and services, it also plays a key role in delivering increased efficiencies and cost savings.
In recognition of these facts and due to the success of the Donegal Design Directorate over the past two years, the Donegal County Enterprise Board has secured further funding under the SKILLNETS programme. This funding will allow the DDD to continue to strengthen design led development amongst Donegal's small businesses by providing business with an opportunity to develop specific design capabilities by delivering more targeted, tailored training programmes and developmental activities.
Established in 2005, the network now has over 60 members ranging from furniture designers to communication designers, architects, craft businesses, manufacturers, interior designers, engineers, retailers, etc..The directorate offers members a forum to learn, raise their profile, share information/recources, and network with others interested in design
The aim of the Donegal Design Directorate Skillnet Project is to promote the value of good design in business and to promote Donegal designers/design related businesses. It focuses on design in all aspescts of from strategy and research, through functional and aesthetic design, production processes, branding, marketing, packaging, distribution, etc.. Activities are member driven and include design training and mentoring, best practice visits, networking events, conferences and workshops.
The Donegal Design Directorate Skillnet is funded by member companies and the Training Networks Programme, an initiative of Skillnets Ltd. funded from the National Fund through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
To request further information or to keep up to date on what is happening please contact:
Donna McFadden
Design Programme Manager
info@donegaldesigndirectorate.com
Tel: + 353 (0)74 9160735