Your perspectives on design and technology transfer

David Secher

Chairman, Unico

'I believe design can play a key role in the exploitation of the UK’s science base and in the commercialisation of research, but it is not currently being utilised to full capacity. Due to a lack of awareness, little engagement between the design and research communities and an inability to fund design related projects, the value of design for technology transfer is under recognised. A scheme which matches design mentors with research teams would facilitate technology transfer and help HEIs develop propositions that are driven by the needs of the market.'

David Maddison

Design mentor, Maddison Design

Designers have a range of specialist skills which enable them to make a unique and valuable contribution to technology start-ups. These skills include creative problem solving and visualisation techniques as well as expert practical knowledge of both user needs and the product development process.

David Churchman

Project Manager at Isis Innovation, the Technology Transfer Company for the University of Oxford

It’s gone really well. Across the three projects we’ve called on every design tool there is, from brainstorming to visualisations. My focus, naturally, is on increasing the value of our technologies and design is an important part of that.