Silesian Design Network
After many years of suspended animation Polish industrial design begins to develop. The domestic market becomes as demanding as that of highly developed countries. Entrepreneurs start to understand that design is the key to success. Unfortunately, the potential of the industrial design is still underestimated although Polish higher education institution educate many gifted students each year. Dialogue between business and design people is necessary to prevent designs from staying in the drawers. One of the priorities of the Regional Innovation Strategy of the Śląskie Voivodeship covers promotion of industrial design. This enabled the development of the project entitled “Silesian Design Network” which operated from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2007. The implementation of this project estimated at PLN 1,120,050 is possible as a result of co-financing from the European Union, namely the European Social Fund (75%) and the State budget within the framework of the Integrated Regional Operational Programme (25%). The main project objective covers facilitating cooperation between entrepreneurs and designers, as well as promotion of industrial design. The network stimulates creation of new brands, innovative solutions and new products, as well as strengthens the market position of Silesian companies.
Silesian Design Network stands for support to entrepreneurs and designers which is implemented by means of:
- information and advisory meetings;
- specialist workshops and trainings;
- exhibitions of Polish and global design;
- conferences with the participation of design experts;
- open days promoting the activity of the Network;
- bulletin “both entrepreneurship and design”;
- Internet database of designers and entrepreneurs: www.wzornictwo.net
Competition “Śląska Rzecz” (Silesian Product of the Year), which primarily aims at promotion of the best, in respect to design, products introduced to production and designs within the scope of visual and multimedia communication, constitutes a significant element of this project.
After two years of operation the assumed objectives were achieved. Consistent promotion of the best designs in branches significant for the region changed the understanding of the producers, who more and more often notify the need to use the services of a designer. The process of matching partners is a computer assisted process relying on a database used by companies that need a designer and designers seeking specialist services and new materials. The Silesian Castle of Art & Enterprise in Cieszyn is a recognised meeting place. The numerous events organised therein are attended by designers and entrepreneurs not only from the Śląskie Voivodeship but also from all over Poland.
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