Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
FOUNDER-ENABLED DESIGN LEADERSHIP CONSTRUCTION: A MULTI-CASE STUDY OF CHINESE SMES
Shiyi LI
Type:
Year:
2025
Editor:
Yong Se Kim; Yutaka Nomaguchi; Cees de Bont; Jianxi Luo; Xiaofang Yuan; Linna Hu; Meng Wang
Author:
Series:
Other endorsed
Institution:
Central Academy of Fine Arts, China
Page(s):
218-225
Abstract:
This study investigates design leadership formation and implementation mechanisms from a power configuration perspective. Through a multi-case study of six design-driven small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China, it identifies three stable design leadership modes: Involve, Match, and Empower. The findings reveal that founder design awareness and proficiency—encompassing understanding of product design and user experience—determines whether design leadership can emerge and influences which mode is adopted, while external factors such as industry competition intensity affect implementation effectiveness. SMEs must dynamically adjust their design leadership modes across different development stages to sustain innovative vitality. This study proposes a "power- capability-innovation" framework, demonstrating that power serves as a catalyst for transforming design capabilities into organizational innovation outcomes. By elucidating power configuration mechanisms in resource-constrained contexts, this research extends design leadership theory and provides actionable guidance for SME founders in building design-driven innovation capabilities.
Keywords:
