Monday, 14 November 2011

Professional Certification in Design

Recently the Chartered Society of Designers released a statement to announce: “The Society is now able to award Chartered Designer status to those practicing in design and satisfying a level of competence determined by the CSD. The new powers place the Society in the enviable position of not only setting standards for professional practice in design but also monitoring and regulating that practice.”

What does this mean?

Well simply, the CSD will have the power to award designers the title of Chartered Designer (similar to other industries e.g architects and accountants). Designers will need to consistently meet the set level of standards set out by the CSD, with the aim of raising the creditability of the design industry and helping clients to make informed decisions based on the ability of designers.

However, the plans have raised many concerns amongst the design community regarding the way in which certification would be awarded. From Inscribe’s stand point we think it could be a great benefit to the design industry, if the CSD achieve the right level of criteria and do not restrict up and coming talent within the industry. For the certification to be a success we believe it is hugely important the CSD communicate well with clients and buyers of design to develop awareness and help them understand the benefits of this process.

Pros to certification in design

• It will set a level of standards, ensuring consistency across the industry.
• It will provide clients and buyers of design, confidence in their decision when hiring new designers.
• Raise creditability of design and promote the benefits of good design
• Help eliminate the level of low quality design within the industry.

Cons to certification in design

• New and developing talent could be stifled, depending on the strict level of criteria.
• Design is very subjective, good design to one person can be seen to be bad to another.

What do you think?

As a client or buyer of design can you see the benefits of certification? Do you think it will aid you in the process of engaging with new designers or design agencies? Maybe a certified designer would have no influence on your decision? We would love to hear you thoughts and opinions on this subject.

Resources: Chartered Society of Designers, Creative Review Blog

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