Globalisation has led to an unforeseen level of intensity in international competition between businesses. Commercial success can no longer be measured on cost competitiveness; design has emerged as a key differentiator for businesses around the world. When combined with strong corporate leadership, design can play a key part in producing sustainable results. As a result, we must develop a more modern definition of what best practice means within the design and business communities, adopting a commitment to excellence that balances both economic and social values.

Sustainable growth through design is not a new concept, but the important relationship between strong corporate leadership and design excellence is often underestimated. The Design Leadership Awards (DLA) commends the dedication and achievement of those who have successfully combined the two into a single concept.

Launched in 2004, the Design Leadership Award aims to:

- Acknowledge the excellent achievements and contributions made by an outstanding world
  business leader
- Establish role models within the international business community; and
- Inspire the public to shape a better future for society

Judging Criteria

The recipient of the Design Leadership Award has:

- Played a leading role in applying design in their organisation, and consistently
  demonstrated outstanding business performance
- Made a significant contribution to support the development of design in their organisation,
  as well as in the design industry
- Promoted or contributed to the development of design in their country, as well as
  the international community