Type of Document	Thesis
Author	Chaney, Sarah Ashley
Author's Email Address	sac03g@fsu.edu
URN	etd-11122007-224016
Title	Interior Design Identity: A Proposal to Shift Public Perception with Public Relations Strategies
Degree	Master of Fine Arts
Department	Interior Design, Department of
Advisory Committee	Advisor Name Title Jill Pable Committee Chair Eric Wiedegreen Committee Member Tock Ohazama Committee Member
Keywords	Design Organization Interior Design Single Design Organization Perception Public Relations Identity Public Perception Unification Shift Perception
Date of Defense	2007-11-06
Availability	unrestricted
Abstract Studies suggest that a pervasive identity and public perception problem exists within the interior design profession which is creating a negative image of the profession. Yet, other research identifies that interior design is a legitimate and vital profession which benefits the human society directly through sustainability, aesthetics, health, safety, and welfare, and quality of life. This situation likely makes it difficult for the interior design profession to express these benefits to the public, complete the quest for national legislation, gain professional legitimacy from society as a whole, or contribute knowledge on crucial issues on an impactful scale. This study suggests these steps are unable to occur due the confusion and misperception of the profession from the public. Specifically, five existing conditions in the interior design profession’s current situation are affecting this situation: 1. past negative media attention that spotlights the interior design profession 2. the absence of a clear step-by-step strategy for campaigns to counteract these effects 3. the profession’s reactive response to negative media attention or crisis 4.the profession’s absence of media contacts for positive exposure 5. the lack of unified information provided by associations and interior designers about the profession The purpose of this study was to review existing research that established there are inaccuracies in the public’s understanding of the interior design profession. With this understanding in hand, the study proposed one possible approach to repair these misperceptions of the public drawing from established processes and procedures of public relations. Such measures have been successfully used by other professions to shift public perception of their identities. Study conclusions suggested that public perception of the interior design profession could be shifted using public relations strategies and by developing a single interior design organization which would provide a unified voice to the profession. The study developed specific public relations elements including a comprehensive written public relations strategy, a description of a public relations campaign, a crisis plan, a list of potential media outlets, and portions of a media pack. These public relations techniques were tailored to meet the current needs of interior design and sought to shift public perception in both the short and long term.
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