“Problems are solved by partnerships between many different kinds of individuals: designers, advocates, policy makers, scientists, engineers, business leaders. In the best scenario, they are covering a lot of ground together to achieve progress and create viable solutions.” Elisa Ruffino, Director, Designmatters Department
A dynamic conversation is going on between the private sector, public sector, and entrepreneurs. Hybrid solutions coming from these very different parts of society are making a lasting difference. Designmatters is actively participating in this shifting landscape, committed to building a more humane and prosperous outlook for all.
The significance of completed projects brings attention and inquiry to Designmatters, each adds to an environment where partnerships form and flourish. From international organizations, to national level funding sources, to individuals and alumni, partners play a vital role in our success. Their funding contributes to the projects’ viability, their expertise to the knowledge base of our students, and their support to the strength of Designmatters.
Once the class ends and the students have moved on, Designmatters often provides continuity. Strategizing, and assessing and measuring social impact highlight this phase. It’s about keeping an eye on the original objective… connecting projects to people and making a difference in their lives.
DESIS Network is a constellation of autonomous but interconnected DESIS Labs. Given this system architecture it offers the very unique possibility to integrate local and global points of view and to promote open design programs where a variety of projects converge, tackling complex problems and generating larger scenarios. Read more about Designmatters as a DESIS Lab here.
Icograda (the International Council of Graphic Design Associations) is the world body for professional communication design. Founded in 1963, it is a voluntary assembly of organisations concerned with graphic design, visual communication, design management, promotion, education, research and journalism. Icograda promotes communication designers’ vital role in society and commerce and unifies the voices of graphic designers and visual communicators worldwide. Click here for Designmatters Icograda profile page
Design Ignites Change — a Worldstudio program — supports designers and architects who want to make a difference through multidisciplinary design and architecture projects that address pressing social issues.
Cumulus is an International Association of Universities and Colleges of Art, Design and Media. Cumulus is the only global association to serve art and design education and research. It is a forum for partnership and transfer of knowledge and best practices. Cumulus consists currently of 176 members from 44 countries.
The Designers Accord is a global coalition of designers, educators, and business leaders, working together to create positive environmental and social impact.