Design management for sustainable development: Concepts and examples

Abstract

The Design has proven to be a strategic tool for the management of several organizations, which have been looking for ways to distinguish themselves within an increasingly competitive market. The main objective of this paper is to validate the best practices that make environmentally responsible companies prove themselves on the market. The focus of this paper is to highlight the Design Management strategies for sustainable development of industries, demonstrating possible solutions for any organization to follow. The research uses the Visual Data Mining methodology to search within databases for Sustainability, Design Management, and Sustainable development. Additionally, it makes use of case studies (companies: Suzano, Braskem, Natura, and Fibria) to list Design Management characteristics for environmentally responsible companies to obtain competitive advantages. As results, this article lists the minimum resources to lead an environmentally responsible company to its success. Companies should improve environmental performance through sustainable use of inputs, and add environmental values and product differentiation values to goods and to services. They should also apply product lifecycle management to their products, and seek sustainable technological innovations. It is also essential to observe local and international environmental regulations and establish ethical and moral standards for all employees of the organization and provide a safe space for all employees. This Study exhibits the positive aspects of environmental responsibility and points criteria for new studies.