The Design Association was launched in partnership with specialist insurer Hiscox at an event held at Hiscox's Art Café on 21 March 2006 in London.
Says Frank Peters, chief executive of the CSD and the DA, "Establishing a recognised professional level for design businesses will complement the professional recognition offered by CSD to individual designers. The accreditation criteria are rigorous and the scheme should change the perception of the sector from being a 'cottage industry' to a recognised mainstream industry."
The DA will accredit design businesses that successfully meet key performance indicators, including professional indemnity insurance, continual professional development programmes, intellectual property protection, standard practice documentation and a demonstration of creative ability. Accredited members will be supported by a range of benefits and features, including a matching service, which communicates their accredited status to potential clients.
Comments Gary Head, underwriting director of Hiscox's Professions and Speciality Commercial Division, "The Design Association accreditation scheme will give designers a competitive edge in their market place. It demonstrates a commitment at the highest level to professional standards."
Full details of the initiative and application process can be found at www.design-association.org.
The CSD is the world's largest chartered body of professional designers and represents designers in all disciplines. It is governed by Royal Charter and as such its members are obliged to practice to the highest professional standards. The Society is also a registered charity and adheres to best practice as a membership organisation. It is neither a trade body nor association, and membership is only awarded to qualified designers who must also prove their professional capability during an admission assessment.
