CPD in the Design sector

Overview of the Design Industry

The design industry is a vast and varied sector covering a wide range of specialisms including communications design, digital and multimedia design, product, graphics and branding, fashion as well as interior, industrial and architectural design. The UK Design Council states there are over 230,000 designers working in UK, with a combined fee income of over £15bn. As globalisation dissolves market boundaries and naturally increases competition throughout all industries, the design sector continues to thrive through its principles of innovation and creativity.

CPD in the Design Industry

CPD plays an increasingly prevalent role in the design sector as the UK industry evolves further into a knowledge-based economy. The Design Council estimates that approximately 77% of all CPD training within the design sector is completed through a structured learning environment, either computer-based learning, external courses and/or attending events and conferences. Competition and innovation are interrelated with the need for high-skilled professionals, and with this the Design Council states that over half of designers in the UK now hold at least an undergraduate degree. Whilst only 13% of designers take regular formal training, almost four in every ten design consultancies expect new recruits to have completed an undergraduate degree.

CPD for Marketers, Digital Marketing & Design

The Institute of Direct & Digital Marketing (IDM) explains “Learning does not stop once you are qualified. Ongoing development must be a high priority, managed in a structured, progressive way. Maintaining CPD is an individual decision marking personal commitment to self-improvement. CPD should not be seen as an additional set of activities to your normal duties and desired learning achievements. CPD is about your awareness and attention to what is important in order to achieve the highest standards in work to ultimately fulfil career potential.”

CPD for Architectural Design Professionals

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) recommends to get the greatest benefit from CPD an architectural design professional should implement a regular cycle of planning, development and reflection on what has been learnt and how this knowledge is put into practice.

CPD for Interior Design

British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) members are required to accrue a minimum of 20 CPD points each year, which are recorded by the BIID, to demonstrate commitment to furthering knowledge and competence in the industry. The Society of British and International Design (SBID) requires all Accredited Members to undertake Continuing Professional Development to maintain registered status. The SBID believe CPD makes an important contribution to supporting Interior Designers to maintain standards and to protect consumers.