Design is a Powerful Tool in a Downturn

Jan 14, 2009 by Jennifer Farley    2 Comments    Posted under: Blog, Design Stuff!

The UK design council has an article on it’s site outlining how many firms see the benefits of good design for their business. Naturally as a designer I have am somewhat biased and completely agree that good design can elevate a company to another level, but it is heartening to read some of the case studies in the article.

During hard times investment in design can give a business a competitive edge over rivals who are reining in their design and innovation budgets in order to save money. As American Express chief executive Ken Chenault told Fortune magazine: ‘A difficult economic environment argues for the need to innovate more, not to pull back.’ Similarly, in September 2008 following a crisis in the global financial markets and in the face of an impending worldwide recession, Intel’s chairman Craig Barrett told Reuters that investment in the company’s products and innovation remained very much on track. ‘We’ve always had the attitude that you have to make that investment in good times and bad,’ he is quoted as saying.

The case studies include some of the big boys like Swatch and McDonalds but also smaller businesses who have turned things around following an investment in design.

Free Ebook Guide to Working With A Designer
The design council has also produced a few downloadable pdf explaining the following;
* How to find a designer
* How to choose a designer
* How to agree budgets and costs
* Writing a brief and getting the project started
* Working with your designer
* Completing the design project

And I should probably mention at this point, if you are looking for some web design work, graphic design or logos or illustration work, (holds hand up) we’re here!!
Check out our portfolio and please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your design needs.

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