Design and Innovation in Brazil. Reflections on a local experience within the furniture industry sector

Abstract

Designers combine scientific knowledge and insights, thus innovating to generate new creative solutions. From a company's perspective, competitive advantages demand innovations that also contribute to engaging people and supporting local development. Despite this favourable scenario, managing the dynamics of innovation is challenging. Thus, it is essential to amplify the sense of participation and partnership among business organizations, academic and research institutions and society towards change. This paper discusses an experience in Brazil that involved the furniture sector, a federal university, support institutions, and the local government. The pilot project was developed within an 18 month-period and was aimed at creating an inter-organizational collaborative network to support social innovation and to foster sustainable practices. Notwithstanding the collaboration of some partners, the outcomes highlighted a hard path towards more successful results. In comparison with other countries that have tried similar endeavours, the actor's willingness to endorse the projects is also related to cultural aspects.