NZTE has recently re-designed its Better by Design (BBD) Programme with a mission to assist companies increase their international competitiveness through the process of design integration. Earlier this year BBD released an RFP to select a panel of Design Coaches for the Programme. After a rigorous selection process our very own Blythe Rees-Jones was appointed as a Design Coach.

Blythe has helped foster design and innovation within many companies as part of his work here at Locus Research, so joining the BBD team is natural fit for him. Blythe is excited by the challenge, noting it won’t be easy, simply because world class design isn’t easy - even for those fluent with it. Blythe is keen to help foster the right attitude and environment within New Zealand companies who want to make a serious commitment to real design and product development.

We're excited to see the new BBD Design Integration Programme in action. By all accounts the new programme has stepped up a level and employs a 'learning by doing' approach. And don't worry, Blythe still has his day job here.

Those interested in the coaching programme can find more information here.