Читать книгу Professional Practice for Interior Designers - Christine M. Piotrowski - Страница 15

A profession is much more than the words in a definition provided by interested groups. According to one dictionary, a profession is “a paid occupation, especially one that involves prolonged training and a formal qualification.”¹ Johnson writes, “As defined by sociologists, a profession is an occupation that is based on theoretical and practical knowledge and training in a particular field. … Professions tend to be credentialed and regulated in relation to certain standards of performance and ethics, which makes them more autonomous and independent than other occupations.”²

Some argue that interior design is not really a profession. This has often occurred when discussions with state legislatures concerning regulation of interior design or use of the title “interior designer” take place. Yet, the interior design profession meets the standards set for defining a profession.

If the measure of a profession involves the criteria offered by the preceding material, then interior design is a profession that has evolved and continues to evolve. Gordon Marshall writes, “A profession includes some central regulatory body to ensure the standard of performance of individual members; a code of conduct; careful management of knowledge in relation to the expertise which constitutes the basis of the profession's activities; and lastly, control of number, selection, and training of new entrants.”³

A professional does not emerge merely as a consequence of learning the technical principles required in the profession. Becoming a professional also requires an attitude of dedicated commitment to the work one does and to the advancement of the profession. Understanding what it takes to organize and maintain an interior design practice follows an understanding of the roots and contemporary concerns of the profession. In the 21st century, having talent as a designer is not enough to survive the ups and downs of the economic roller coaster.