What is the PDA ?
The PDA (Pan-European Brand Design Association) was formed in 1990, when a number of Europe’s leading designers identified a deeply-felt need for a new, European forum. They wanted to share information, ideas and opinions – however controversial – about packaging, identity, literature, point-of-purchase, electronic media. They wanted to meet other design professionals, not as competitors, but as colleagues and friends. And it worked. From that simple concept, the PDA has grown steadily into the pan-European force for design that it is today.
What do we do?
Our main meeting point is at our innovative congresses which take place every six months. However, our work continues throughout the whole year. We provide opportunities for European designers to meet and interact on a local level, at meetings organised by our National Correspondents. We encourage the highest standards of ethics and practice in design. We promote design and its role in business by including clients in our activities. We offer guidance to European design colleges on professional training and education. We aim to create links with the EU authorities for the benefit of the design industry. But it’s not all hard work. We also meet informally whenever we can – just to talk.
How do we work?
We like to keep things simple. The PDA is run by its members, for its members. We have an elected Executive Committee which develops policy, organises events, and drives the Association towards its goals. In addition, we have National Correspondents, who keep in close contact with members in their own countries, grow PDA membership on a local basis, and liaise with their national press and other media. They meet with the Executive Committee twice a year. Finally, we have an annual General Assembly where members vote on PDA policies and practices. If there is a need to vote on any immediate issues, we hold a postal vote. All of this is held together and kept under control by our permanent, multi-lingual Secretariat, which is based in Germany.
