Technology has also empowered clients, giving many the ability to do their own research and even buy their own products. This change in our business
model requires that design professionals not only have access to the right information, but the ability to synthesize and make sense of it in order to deliver the right solutions and curate the client experience. Continuing to develop knowledge and expertise in key areas that impact the built environment is one way in which the impact of design and the human experience is realized. The ability to make sense of information is a critical value that designers lend to a project.
To prepare our members to excel in this dynamic and evolving landscape, ASID is committed to investing in technology to developing programs and other deliverables that will assist in the 24/7 delivery of information. We are in the process of creating an integrated “dashboard” system for communications that will promote connectivity and deliver information that is tailored and relevant to our members, as well as the design community at large.
One of the first steps we have taken in this direction is the launch of the new ASID.org website,
which is scheduled to go live later this year. We’ll also be introducing a series of technological enhancements for members that include:
- CEU training on software applications for
members who want to improve their skillsets
- Technology venues (apps, virtual classrooms
for CEUs, conferencing) for greater collaboration
among members
- Systematic delivery of all relevant and related
information impacting the profession, such as
the dissemination of research and updated
building codes
- Partnerships with technology companies to
leverage the purchasing power of ASID
and benefit our members’ investments in
technological tools and collaborative training
As an organization, we know that seamless integration among networking opportunities is critical to collaboration, connectivity and generating successful businesses. That’s why harnessing our partnerships with industry-leading companies and organizations, providing increased access to online training and education, and promoting opportunities to build and expand business are among some of ASID’s main initiatives in the coming year.
I hope that you will expand your opportunities to network with us as we develop our technological base to collaborate and provide innovative solutions that will enhance design business opportunities.
Barbara Marini, FASID, IDEC is the chair of the interior design program at the International Academy of Design and Technology in Detroit, Mich. ASID can be reached at (202) 546-3480 or asid@asid.org, and on the web at www.asid.org.