Design-Driven Innovation-Why it Matters for SME Competitiveness

Abstract

This report is the result of collaboration between the NWRA and the CIRCA Group Europe (the commissioned research consultants) and driven through the support of a dedicated project steering group.

The Northern and Western Regional Assembly has been funded by the European Commission to develop awareness and raise the levels of understanding of the benefits of applying design-driven innovation in Ireland. The report sets out to illustrate the potential added-value to the Irish economy by adding another dimension to its eco-system of innovation supports and while also bringing this innovation process to the attention of SMEs. The publication of this report coincides with Irish Design (ID) 2015, a year-long Government backed initiative exploring and promoting Irish design in all forms. The initiative aims to promote Ireland as a hub for design excellence and encourage investment in design as a key driver of competitiveness and innovation. ID 2015 is a key component of the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs. This report will contribute to this debate and brings forward a bank of evidence and new research to support the need for a greater application of design-driven innovation amongst Ireland’s SMEs to develop their competitiveness and growth potential.