A Process Model for an Innovative Platform Enabling Industry–Academia Collaboration in the Furniture and Design Sector

Author : Agata Barlik

Abstract : The digital transformation of education and industry challenges universities to develop curricula that foster practical skills, industry readiness, and collaboration. This poster presents an ongoing implementation oriented doctoral project funded by the Ministry of Education in Poland, aiming to develop a prototype of a digital platform connecting four stakeholder groups: (1) furniture designers and architects, (2) furniture manufacturers, (3) investors and developers, and (4) higher education institutions. The platform is intended to support the domestic design and furniture market and facilitate collaboration among micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The doctoral project integrates a process-oriented curriculum framework, linking students, educators, and industry partners through project-based learning, real-world briefs, and continuous feedback loops. The prototype will be iteratively tested with the target groups to refine functionality and collaborative processes. The research employs a mixed-methods and design-based approach, including interviews, observations, and surveys to evaluate learning outcomes, engagement, and curriculum relevance. Preliminary observations suggest that digitally mediated curricula and collaborative platforms enhance students’ practical skills and professional identity, while industry partners benefit from structured collaboration and early access to talent. This poster presents the ongoing project, its process model, and interim design principles, highlighting how a digitally mediated platform can strengthen industry academia collaboration in furniture and design, fostering sustainable, practice-oriented partnerships.

Keywords : Industry–Academia Collaboration, Digital Platform, Furniture Design, Curriculum Development, Implementation Doctorate, Prototype Testing, SME Collaboration, Process-Oriented Model, Collaborative Learning, Design Innovation

Conference Name : International Conference on Curriculum Development in the Digital Age (ICC2DA-26)

Conference Place : Mexico City, Mexico

Conference Date : 30th Apr 2026