Rolls-Royce, Dyson and PriestmanGoode to speak at the Leading Business by Design Summit 2015

Manufacturing and design experts from Rolls-Royce, Dyson and PriestmanGoode have been confirmed to speak at this summer’s Leading Business by Design Summit.

Taking place shortly after the general election, the event will bring together manufacturers, business leaders, designers and policymakers to discuss the future of manufacturing in the UK, and how design is the key to its sustainable growth.

For 70 years, our work at Design Council has shown that ‘design-led thinking’ is an important driver of innovation and competitive advantage in any business sector.

Paul Priestman, co-founding Director of design and brand experience consultancy PriestmanGoode, explains it is no different in manufacturing: 

“Rapid developments in science, technology and materials are changing the way products are designed and manufactured, and it’s crucial British manufacturing has the skills and interdisciplinary framework to adapt. Changes in the broader manufacturing ecosystem mean designers increasingly need to develop a wider skillset. I believe we'll see design play a more fundamental role in integrating products and services and enhancing customer experience – our work at PriestmanGoode is already showing that.”

The Summit will explore how emerging markets have meant competition no longer takes place between individual businesses, but entire supply chains. Design Council’s recent work with Rolls-Royce and its global supply chain will be analysed to show how good design is the result of effective collaboration within and between organisations.

I hope this Summit will help foster greater links between design and the manufacturing industry.

Paul Priestman, co-founding Director of PriestmanGoode

Hosted by Birmingham City University, the Summit will bring together decision-makers from a range of industries and sectors. Priestman believes that this type of interdisciplinary event is vital:

“So often with design-related events, there are designers on stage talking to an audience of designers. I think it’s crucial to demonstrate to industry leaders that design can add great value to businesses. I hope this Summit will help foster greater links between design and the manufacturing industry.”

Two new pieces of research will be launched at the event, exploring the role of design in the passenger automotive and civil aerospace sectors.

John Mathers, Design Council Chief Executive, says: “Britain has the second largest design sector in the world, and the largest in Europe. We need to start flexing this muscle effectively across British industry to unlock the potential of our manufacturing capabilities. It is an increasingly competitive market out there – we believe that design can be the differentiator, and Britain holds all the cards in that department. Collaboration is key to innovation.”