The International Network for Design Managers (INDM) was founded by the Danish Design Centre and the 40-60 members include both design managers, innovation directors and product managers from the Nordic countries. The network is established as a sparring platform for the relatively few Nordic design managers and their business connections. 

There are 2-3 annual meetings in the Network. Here, the members attend seminars, visit other members' companies as well as visit large global companies and hotspots that are leaders in design management.
 

Expectations to the Network

The Danish Design Centre asked three members what their expectations are towards the INDM. 

Josina Wilhelmina Bergsøe, Design Manager, Communication & Design, COWI A/S, Denmark
“A main goal for the international network should be to define the design manager’s role in the future; how can we contribute at a strategic level in our companies. And how and where can we share our knowledge online, ideas, salary, job definition, titles, knowhow etc.”

Aina Nilsson Ström, Design Director, Volvo 3P, Sweden
“We are most of the time rather alone as design expertise in our individual management teams and therefore we may need to support each other in a network like this. We need the strength and power from this network to keep strong and competent.”

Timo Tiainen, Design Manager, KONE Design, Global R&D, Finland
“I see that the main goal for the network is to develop the design profession towards a more influential and significant role in companies. This demands a more business oriented approach meaning ability to quantify design in monetary terms. At the same I see that design has a perfect position to take leading role as a driving force in innovation. Not alone but as a clue and catalyst between different professions.”