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Design is at the heart of human civilization. It encompasses science and engineering; language, communication and rhetoric; cognitive science and how we think; marketing and the power of persuasion; design as a management tool; the arts; social implications; ethics; innovation and entrepreneurship; history; and intellectual property. Design in its broadest sense represents a perfect topic for a university-wide thrust, as its breadth of intellectual content can only be adequately addressed in a comprehensive university setting. Indeed, an audit of expertise and interest in design includes dozens of university and University Circle (e.g, Cleveland Institute of Art, Nottingham-Spirk Design, and some of the nation's leading hospitals; see map) as well as city and regional institutions and organizations.
Design is of course more than a purely intellectual pursuit, and its translation into viable products and services can be a significant economic engine. Cleveland and Northeast Ohio have benefitted from the fruits of innovative design, and it is time to reclaim this strength. Thus, design offers an opportunity to add to the portfolio of the university's impact on the local economy and to help Cleveland and the region shape its identity as an economic driver in the 21st century.
As part of Case Western Reserve University's new strategic plan, design has emerged as a principal theme. TiME has been a driver in recognizing this significant opportunity and, with the support of GE Lighting and the Kern Foundation, in moving forward with an inventory of talent and expertise on campus and locally. The talent base is broad, and there are already several innovative programs under development. For example, the Weatherhead School of Management has created a major thrust on 'Managing as Designing,' recognizing that the art of design is increasingly important to the practice of management. In addition, the Case School of Engineering and the College of Arts and Sciences are increasing their focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, and design is an integral component.
From TiME's perspective, design represents a key point of differentiation and distinction for our MEM program and, of course, for our MEM students. The integration of engineering, management and design is a powerful formula for success in the 21st century, and few places anywhere else in the world have the all of the necessary resources within walking distance. Our MEM courses in product design and development, materials and manufacturing processes, engineering entrepreneurship, and information technology and systems have especially strong connections to design and these will only continue to increase. Also, we anticipate expanded experiential learning opportunities via course projects and new opportunities for MEM Commercialization Assistants. TiME looks forward to playing a major role at Case Western Reserve University and in University Circle in developing an integrated design initiative that will have global impact. Along the way, we will continue to help our MEM students to design their future. It is truly an exciting time in Cleveland.
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