A model for approacching through design SMEs’ internationalization processes.

The paper reports observations on a emerging evolution in the cooperation between designers and enterprises. The traditional competencies of this professional figure, in fact, are broadening, to address the increased complexity of the market. To understand this change an empirical research path was started, aiming at testing the mentioned. The presented projects, focusing on two emerging markets (China and Russia), worked on the difficulties encountered by Italian SMEs to act globally. Researching this topic from a design point of view, few common practices have emerged. In particular a pre-research phase has appeared to be indispensable, to assure investigation, comprehension and socio-cultural orientation in the potential market, even before deciding to invest. To better explore this field, the design discipline is starting to create new methods and tools. The final aim of this ongoing research is to understand and decode them, building a possible model of approaching internationalization processes through design.