Program Overview

Introduction to International Design Business Management (IDBM)

The International Design Business Management (IDBM) master's program is a unique, interdisciplinary program that combines design, business, and technology. It is the only program of its kind in Finland and is offered by all six schools of Aalto University.

Program Overview

IDBM is a 30-year-old program that has collaborated with over 200 different partner companies, including Kone, Nordea, Posti, Harvia, ABB, Kemira, and Fortum. The program focuses on developing students' creative problem-solving skills, multidisciplinary teamwork, and ability to tackle complex, real-world business challenges.

Industry Project - The Core of IDBM

The IDBM program's core is the seven-month Industry Project course. The course aims to develop students' creative problem-solving skills and multidisciplinary teamwork by working on real business challenges provided by partner companies. Students from different fields, including art, technology, and business, form teams to develop innovative solutions for the partner companies.

Recent Projects

Recent projects have focused on topics such as circular economy, ecosystem development, service design, and internal innovation. Some projects have also explored the potential of generative artificial intelligence. The Aalto Global Impact (AGI) project, which focuses on promoting sustainable development globally, is also part of the program. This year, the AGI project is focused on Kenya.

Student Experiences

Students who have participated in the Industry Project course have praised the experience. Anastasia Bratter, who was part of the Aalto Global Impact team, described the experience as "truly special" and appreciated the freedom and support given to the team. Karim Kanji, who worked on a project with ABB, found the experience "life-changing" and appreciated the opportunity to apply the skills and tools learned in the IDBM program to a real-world challenge.

Partner Companies' Feedback

Partner companies have also praised the program. Porvoon kaupunki, which was a recent partner, appreciated the students' work and the opportunity to collaborate with them. If Vakuutus, another partner company, was impressed by the students' ability to quickly grasp the complexities of the insurance industry and develop innovative solutions.

Upcoming Events

The IDBM program's 30th-anniversary celebrations will culminate in a gala event in May, where student teams will present their project results to partner companies and the public.

Contact Information

For more information about the IDBM program or to express interest in collaborating with the program, please contact IDBM Program Director Ville Eloranta.

Additional Information

• The IDBM program is a two-year master's program that can be completed as a Master of Science in Economics, Master of Arts, or Master of Science in Technology.
• The program is taught in English and is open to international students.
• The application period for the program typically opens in December and closes in January.
• For more information about the program, including admission requirements and tuition fees, please visit the Aalto University website.