Irish industry needs to be more aware of the strategic importance of design as a driver of product differentiation and the role that effective design management can play in making business efficient, Enterprise Ireland has said.

The industrial development agency said yesterday Irish enterprise was lagging behind its European counterparts in recognising the role design can play in harnessing growth opportunities and developing strong, competitive organisations.

Enterprise Ireland director of business development Mr Pat Maher made the comments at the launch of D2 - Design 2000, a series of seminars which will take place in Dublin, Cork, Waterford and Galway.