Design for Development works with communities around the globe to develop meaningful and appropriate solutions to real world problems.

The Design For Development Society (DFD) is a Vancouver-based, registered Canadian charity dedicated to using design as a problem-solving tool to address issues in poverty-stricken areas of the world. DFD aims to reduce poverty and increase community self-reliance through demonstrated and advocated use of the design process.

Established in 2006 by Canadian designers Niki Dun and Sue Fairburn, DFD is committed to working with communities in developing countries to create practical solutions to the issues that they face.

Examples of their current activities include:

• Working with communities in southern Africa to build bicycle ambulances that allow rural communities to transport injured people to medical facilities quickly and safely.

• Supporting and advising design and engineering students in a range of development projects.

• Exploratory design work into issues such as low-tech plastic recycling, in-field anesthesia delivery systems and alternative powered water pumps.

Who Is Design For Development?

• Designers who want to use our skills to help others, to solve problems, to end poverty;
• Communities facing an issue, needing some advice;
• Organizations interested in how design can help under-served communities;
• Students who can see how practical, appropriate solutions can help those in need;
• Individuals interested in making real and tangible changes in the world.

Design For Development is a team effort, with time, energy and skills provided by an enthusiastic and dedicated group of volunteers, participants, directors and management.

They welcome your involvement.