Abstract
This paper explores the design-led transformation of Kimu Design, a Taiwanese SME, through its participation in the Industrial Design-Driven Innovation (IDDI) initiative. Employing a single embedded case study and a mixed-methods approach—including structured surveys and semi-structured interviews—the research applies Maylor et al.'s Complexity Assessment Tool (CAT) to assess how public design programs influence innovation across structural, sociopolitical, and emergent dimensions. Findings show that targeted design support enabled Kimu to launch a new modular product line, improve internal workflows, and broaden market reach. While some limitations in budget flexibility and administrative processes were noted, these frameworks also enhanced project clarity and accountability. The study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at improving public design initiatives through adaptive governance, complexity management training, and stronger support for international expansion. The case offers practical insights into how design policy can build long-term innovation capacity in SMEs through strategic, well-supported public intervention.
Keywords
Design-driven innovation; IDDI; SMEs; Complexity management
DOI
https://doi.org/10.21606/iasdr.2025.273
Citation
Wu, C., Liang, M., Wu, Y.,and Huang, C.(2025) From Complexity to Capability: Design-Led Transformation of a Taiwanese SME under the IDDI Program, in Chang, C.-Y., and Hsu, Y. (eds.), IASDR 2025: Design Next, 02-05 December, Taiwan. https://doi.org/10.21606/iasdr.2025.273
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Conference Track
Track 10 - Design Practices & Impacts
From Complexity to Capability: Design-Led Transformation of a Taiwanese SME under the IDDI Program
This paper explores the design-led transformation of Kimu Design, a Taiwanese SME, through its participation in the Industrial Design-Driven Innovation (IDDI) initiative. Employing a single embedded case study and a mixed-methods approach—including structured surveys and semi-structured interviews—the research applies Maylor et al.'s Complexity Assessment Tool (CAT) to assess how public design programs influence innovation across structural, sociopolitical, and emergent dimensions. Findings show that targeted design support enabled Kimu to launch a new modular product line, improve internal workflows, and broaden market reach. While some limitations in budget flexibility and administrative processes were noted, these frameworks also enhanced project clarity and accountability. The study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at improving public design initiatives through adaptive governance, complexity management training, and stronger support for international expansion. The case offers practical insights into how design policy can build long-term innovation capacity in SMEs through strategic, well-supported public intervention.