What are the real issues – without the NCIDQ and professional organization hype – involved in Interior Design Title Acts and Practice Acts that architects and contractors find troubling” How do we keep common sense in these Title and Practice Acts” Why doesn’t there seem to be one approach to all of this instead of state by state with resulting variance in what one can be called and what that title can actually do” Isn’t this sort of like what we had before” And, are there practicing designers who are actually against these acts”

(submitted by Sarah S.)

We are thrilled to hear your readers are interested in this subject. TAID would be glad to answer any and all questions. Unfortunately, there is way too much “bad or erroneous” information out there floating around. Let’s answer each question one by one…

(For additional answers to these questions, GO HERE.)

What are the real issues, without the NCIDQ and professional organization hype, involved in Interior Design Title Acts and Practice Acts that architects and contractors find troubling”

I have been in many “team” efforts through the years. Once the contractor or architect understands that you know your subject and/or they determine that you are not working against them, the project works smoothly with all professionals proceeding as a “team”. Maybe it has to do more with timing. If all professionals are hired at the same time ” versus hiring “in stages” ” there is less friction”” We are all working towards a completed project where the client needs are met and their health, safety and welfare, as well as that of the public, is served, and, finally, where we professionals are proud of the end product.

How do we keep common sense in these Title and Practice Acts”

The following clarification is full of “common sense.” (I hope I”m not being facetious!) The proposed practice act further defines the practice of interior design. The real difference between the “title” act and the “practice” act is just what the two words state. Under the present environment, as long as you don”t use the “title” interior designer you can still practice interior design. Under the proposed “practice” act you cannot practice interior design if you don”t meet the qualifications of Education, Experience and Examination.

Isn’t this sort of like what we had before”

The key here is “regulated spaces”.

And, are there practicing designers who are actually against these acts”

If they are against The Practice Act, I feel they are either misinformed or we have yet to properly answer their questions. I can”t imagine a professional being against this act because it is going to protect their chosen profession. It will give them personal control over their profession.