Preparations for Developing a World Design Capital: The Case of Taipei City Transformation Process in Taiwan

Abstract

The World Design Capital (WDC) is a global city promotion project that praises achievements in cities that use design as a fundamental tool to reshape the cityscape, while improving the quality of life for its citizens within the respect of sustainability and diversity. Facing complex challenges of urbanization and globalization, Taipei City, Taiwan, is seeking cultural, educational, and industrial breakthroughs and innovations in order to improve societal quality of life and become a WDC. This study introduces the preparation process from the human resource group of the Taipei city government and proposes promising initiatives and strategic actions based on the Kano two-dimensional quality model. Taipei City is committed to leveraging the power of design to inspire its citizens to reshape and rejuvenate the Taiwanese society through three major initiatives: ‘Creative Thinking for K-12’ (educational initiatives), ‘Designers Everywhere’ (cultural initiatives) and ‘Healthy Design Industry’ (industrial initiatives). This paper determines specific strategic actions for each major initiative. From sustainable development perspectives in society, to future challenges, problems, and opportunities are also discussed in the study. It is expected that lessons from this transformation can introduce creativity into citizens’ lives, improve societal quality of life, and thus benefit other cities.