October 2008
A £1million development aimed at helping companies benefit through the application of design to their products and services is to be based in Aberdeen.
The Centre for Design and Innovation Management, which will launch next January, will be based at Gray's School of Art at The Robert Gordon University, will be a first for Scotland in providing support to businesses in design and innovation management.
The Centre will also establish a research and knowledge transfer network to promote the use of research and leading edge practice in design.
Julian Malins, professor of design at Gray's School of Art, will act director of the new Centre.
Malins explained: "The Centre will help companies take their new products to market by working with them to develop good practice in design and innovation management.
We will act as a bridge between academia, the creative industries and other sectors to encourage innovation."
The Centre is being funded through grants from the Scottish Government's Seekit Programme and the European Regional Development Fund.
Other partners in the project include: Scottish Enterprise, Aberdeen City Council, Glasgow School of Art, and Skills Development Scotland.
The Centre will work closely in collaboration with Scottish Enterprise and their team of account managers to establish links with companies.
Professor Stuart MacDonald, head of Gray's School of Art said, "We are at a critical time for both businesses and designers, so the Centre is a much-needed initiative that will offer practical support to Scottish businesses and create real opportunities for our designers.
Importantly, it will provide invaluable, case studies and insights for our students and staff.
This is a key project which will enhance Gray's reputation as the professional art school."
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