At the start of this year, IDC invited members to submit feedback on ways the association can improve to provide the best membership experience. IDC received a high volume of responses and identified some confusion among the submissions regarding current and future programs and initiatives.
IDC values members’ feedback and will make it a priority to continue to provide information on select topics.
1. Education – Interior designers are required to fulfil professional development requirements to remain members in good standing with their provincial association, which is facilitated through the Interior Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC).
IDC offers continuing education opportunities to members across Canada to help members fulfil their continuing education requirements and keep up to date on current industry regulations, business practices, and trends. As an advocacy association, IDC does not police the collection of hours, as it is not part of our mandate.
Members who attend CEUs offered by IDC receive their certificates of completion via email following the webinar and self-report their hours to IDCEC.
2. Advocacy – While provincial (often regulatory) associations and advocacy associations do share some duties, there are many differences between the two bodies.
IDC keeps its members informed on industry news and trends and advocates on behalf of its members. One of the main goals of IDC is to be the national voice for interior designers, while considering the integrity, innovation, sustainability, inclusion, and an ethical, accountable, and positive future for members, partners, and stakeholders.
Regulatory bodies, or provincial associations, create practice standards, offer guidelines and conditions, and impose penalties for misconduct– all in the name of public protection, a much-needed and valuable asset in our society.
3. Provincial relationships – Both IDC and the provincial associations add value to practicing interior designers, but with different goals in mind – one serves the interests of its members as individuals and a collective, while the other holds its members accountable to the public. IDC has begun to work more closely with the provinces this year and will continue to bridge relationships and collaborate on projects in the future. IDC will ensure that we provide clearer communications to the provincial associations and clear up any misinformation quickly.
4. Trade missions – There is no cost to members to attend the international trade missions, nor is it an expense to IDC. Funding for these trips does not come from membership dues. The missions are funded by international trade associations in host countries and for some missions, part of the cost is covered by individual traveling. Through participation in the trade missions, IDC provides opportunities for members to develop business relationships and network with fellow designers as well as to be exposed to new suppliers and manufacturers.
IDC’s 2021 strategic plan will be published this spring. If there are other topics or issues within IDC or the interior design industry that require further clarification, please submit them to communications@idcanada.org.
