This module develops the students' professional development through project work. Students will undertake a study programme that allows them to complete key exercises that demonstrate clear understanding of brand development and corporate identity alongside the development of business planning and financial forecasting skills. Students will present work which demonstrates an understanding of the demands of running and marketing an interior design based business.
Formative assessment will involve anaysis and of a brand logo andhow it reflects company ethos. Summative assessment involves the production of a number of documents which could be used to set up a business should students choose to enter the realms of self-employment. Students will research the market and determine a brand identity and philosophy for their company. This will then be used to design and produce marketing literature and a marketing plan which will consider brand values, short and long term targets and marketing strategy. The emphasis will be on analysing what already exists in the market and determining how to develop unique selling points. Students will also be expected to produce a business plan including financial forecasts suitable for presenting to a bank or financial consultant.

Range of resources located on the VLS
Tutorial staff
Library Services

All elements are required. Coursework will consist of :
-Business Plan, 1000-1500 words (LO 1 & 3) 40%
-Marketing Plan, 1000-1500 words (LO 2)30%
-Branding & Marketing Materials (LO 2, 4) 30%

Key Information Set:
100% coursework

Delivery is by distance learning with a comprehensive resource handbook on the VLE and available to download, examples of best practice, project templates and email and telephone support being available through our online VLE, individual tutorials and student forum. Specialist knowledge will be delivered by a diverse team of staff and visiting guest lecturers with a variety of relevant backgrounds and experience

Key Information Set:
10% scheduled learning and teaching activities
90% guided independent learning

Airey, D., 2009. Logo Design Love - A guide to creating iconic brand identities: Berkeley, New Riders
Chapin, K. (2012) Grow Your Handmade Business. Storey Publishing: London
Cornish, S & Tucker, H. (2012) Build A Business from Your Kitchen Table. Simon & Schuster: London
Knackstedt, M., 2008. Marketing and Client Relations for Interior Designers: Hoboken. John Wiley & Sons Inc.
Peterson, S., Jaret, P. E., Scenck, B. F., 2009. Business Plans Kit for Dummies: Hoboken. Wiley Publishing
Piotrowski, C. M., 2008. Professional Practice for Interior Designers: 4th ed. Hoboken. John Wiley & Sons Inc.
Princeton, L.,2009. Marketing Interior Design: New York. Allworth Press
Reuvid, J., 2011. Start Up and Run Your Own Business. 8th ed. London. Kogan Page
Tilley, J.2013. Interior Design Year Book. Peterborough:One Coms (published annually)