APGDI Newsletter: July 09

Newsletter
Issue 25
July 2009

APGDI News

Design & Procurement Research project with the DBA: 2^nd Inquiry Session

On the 6^th July the APGDI held the second of three Inquiry Sessions as part of our research into public sector use of design services. Chaired by Baroness Janet Whitaker, the Inquiry Panel interviewed a range of senior public sector design buyers and policy experts on the perceived impediments to utilisation of design by the public sector, and the problems with the procurement process.

Commercialising Science by Design – APGDI breakfast roundtable with the Design Council

On the 8th July the APGDI and the Design Council jointly hosted a breakfast meeting on the exploitation of the UK science base. Chaired by Adam Afriyie MP, the group heard from Dr David Baghurst, head of Isis Enterprise (Oxford University’s Technology Transfer office) and Billy Boyle, Director of Cambridge spin-off Owlstone. Discussion topics ranged from the gap between research and innovation in the UK, to use of IP and changes to R&D tax credit legislation.

John Clare Cottage Opening

On Monday 13^th July the APGDI joined in the final stage of a sponsored walk to commemorate 19^th Century English poet John Clare. The walk preceded the opening of the refurbished Clare Cottage and Environment and Educational Centre in Helpston.

Design & Procurement Research Project with the DBA: 3^rd Inquiry Session

On the 20^th July the APGDI held the third and final of our evidence gathering sessions in the House of Lords. However we are still accepting written evidence. Please contact the APGDI if you are interested in contributing, or to find out more about the research.

For more APGDI news visit our website here.

Upcoming Events

Parliament is now in recess until 12^th October. However, below is a sneak preview of activities planned for the autumn…

Design & Procurement Report Launch: 10^th November
Economy 2020 Discussion Group: What will the shape of the economy be in the years to come, and what role for the high-tech innovative industries?
Innovation in Construction Dinner and discussion series
Innovation for Rural Transport: how can we use innovation and design to solve problems of accessibility in rural communities
Patient Safety and the role of design: joint meetings with the APHG
Design & Innovation Parliamentary Breakfast Series

Please contact Jocelyn Bailey for further information about upcoming events.