ASID, IIDA consider possible merger

ASID and IIDA have entered into discussions about joining forces to become the single voice of the interior design profession. These conversations have been exploratory in nature and designed to discern if one organization representing the interior design profession is best for both organizations' members and the profession as a whole, according to an ASID press release.

A cross-association team was charged by both boards to identify key issues and make recommendations or whether more formal discussions should be pursued.

From the discussions, it was clear both organizations seek to advance and broaden the profession of interior design, aid research, forward the right to practice, celebrate design, and provide effective member services, the release said.

"At the local level, many ASID and IIDA chapters have been working to-gether for some time. The profession would be better served represented by one organization," said Cary Johnson, FIIDA, IIDA president. "The time is right for these discussions."

"Those familiar with both organizations know that our goals and aspirations for the profession are very similar," said Barbara A. Nugent, FASID, ASID president. "Our discussions so far have been very constructive. We are fortunate to have so many talented and dedicated individuals involved in this process."

Both organizations have agreed to continue discussions related to the creation of a single organization.

In the event of a formal decision to merge, the professional members from both ASID and IIDA would need to vote to approve such an alignment. As the discussions move forward, ASID and IIDA are actively soliciting feedback from members, chapters, the media and other stakeholders.

The American Society of Interior De-signers (ASID) represents the interests of more than 31,500 members, including 20,000 interior design professionals, as well as students and industry partners. ASID's mission is to be the definitive resource for professional education and knowledge sharing, advocacy of interior designers' right to practice, and expansion of interior design markets.

The International Interior Design As-sociation (IIDA) is a professional networking and educational association of more than 10,000 members in eight specialty forums and more than 30 chapters around the world.

IIDA is committed to enhancing the quality of life through excellence in interior design and advancing interior design through knowledge.

IIDA advocates for interior design excellence; provides industry information; nurtures a global interior design community; maintains educational standards; and responds to trends in bus-iness and design.