Creative Empowerment and Community Upliftment Policy

We believe in the benefits of Open Design, which is a  form of co-creation, where the final product is designed by users, instead of external stakeholders such as private companies. We choose our clients, projects and organise production by prioritising socio-ecological well-being over corporate profits, over-production and excess consumption.  However, many companies have used the idea of open design and open source to exploit creatives, engineers, writers and more. As much as we believe that education should be free and access to knowledge is a human right. We also respect and deeply honour the commitment, passion, the time, effort and personal dedication of artists, writers, engineers, teachers, all individuals  who pour their souls into their creative endevours. Their dedication to the art of creation is a profound contribution to the advancement of humanity across various domains including art, science, education, technology and more. 

We have designed specific projects and programmes where people can share their skills and time on projects which are for advancing the common good. As well as specific projects and programmes dedicated to the  empowerment of creatives, builders, educators and the uplifting of communities, ensuring mutual support and collective growth. Through these initiatives we can impact the growth and recognition of their contributions but also ensure they receive due credit and opportunities to reap the rewards of their creations. 

Respect for Data, Creative Work, and Open Design

  • Copyright and Intellectual Property: We recognise and respect the intellectual property rights of creators and authors. All data, content, and creative works shared or produced within the organiaation are subject to copyright protection, and individuals are expected to adhere to copyright laws and ethical guidelines governing their use, reproduction, and distribution. 

  • Attribution and Recognition: We value proper attribution and recognition for creators and authors. When using or referencing data, content, or creative works produced by others, individuals are expected to provide clear and visible credit to the original source, including the author’s name, affiliation, and any applicable licenses or permissions. 

  • Freelance isn’t FREE: We recognise and respect the value of creative and freelance work. Freelancers and independent creators have contributed to specific projects and initiatives, and their time, expertise, and efforts deserve fair compensation even when they are interns or in the process of a career transition. In cases where contractors have been included in our projects, it is only when the project has been assessed to require additional skills and where the client has approved the proposal for additional team members. We are committed to upholding the principle that “freelance isn’t free” and ensuring that all individuals involved in our endeavors are compensated fairly for their contributions. If you are a freelancer or independent contractor who would like to work with us rest assured that we prioritise timely and equitable compensation for your work. Notices will be published on this website when there are new openings within our projects. 

Upliftment and empowering of marginalised individuals

  • Equal opportunity: We are committed to providing equal opportunities for individuals from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, ( including the elderly, women, women of color, mothers, and people with disabilities) to participate in our projects, programs, and initiatives as contributors, co-creators, clients or contractors. We actively seek to empower and uplift individuals facing systemic barriers to participation and advancement in business and creative industries. 

  • Employment and Skills Development: We prioritise initiatives that enable employment and skills development for previously disadvantaged individuals, including training programs, mentorship opportunities, and job placement initiatives. We seek to empower individuals to pursue careers in creative fields and contribute to their personal and professional development.

Community upliftment and social development

  • Social Impact Projects: We undertake social impact projects and initiatives aimed at addressing societal challenges and promoting positive change in our communities. We collaborate with local organisations and communities to identify needs and implement solutions that contribute to community upliftment and social development.
  • Community Building: We actively engage with our community of users, contributors, and stakeholders to build networks, foster collaboration, and create a sense of belonging and shared purpose. We provide platforms, resources, and opportunities for individuals to connect, collaborate, and support each other in achieving common goals.

Open design and collaboration

  • Open Design Principles: We embrace open design principles that promote transparency, collaboration, and accessibility in the design process. We encourage individuals to share ideas, designs, and resources openly and to collaborate with others to co-create innovative solutions that address societal needs and challenges.

  • Open Source and Creative Commons Licensing: We release some of our works under open source and Creative Commons licenses that enable the free distribution, use, and modification of our creative works while preserving the rights of creators and ensuring proper attribution. We support the principles of open access, open data, and open innovation to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration. Without the exploitation of others. If you’d like to understand which parts of  our work are available under creative commons licensing reach out directly. 

Feedback

We respect the rights of creators and are committed to facilitating a clear understanding of how and when creative work can be used.  

Reach out if  you wish to discuss any copyright or copyleft related enquiries or concerns or if you’d like to feature your content on our platform. Or if you would like to clarify which parts of our work can be shared or used, please contact the website’s owner:  email info@designerd.co.za

 

Updated: 11 May 2024