Academics from the Art and Design Research Centre (ADRC) at Sheffield Hallam University teamed up with colleagues from the China Academy of Fine Art (CAFA) to produce the Designing Impact! book. The book explores both institutions' approaches to applied design, and features a behind-the-scenes study of the Cutting Edge public art outside Sheffield's train station, created by Sheffield Hallam metalworker Chris Knight.

The book was launched in at the Site Gallery at an event celebrating five years of ADRC publications. Professor Paul Chamberlain, head of the ADRC, said: 'The book offers people an insight into the creative design process and how it directly affects us socially and economically, across a range of diverse projects, including the Cutting Edge sculpture in Sheffield.

'But it also puts the city on the global stage, showing the great design work that's happening here alongside some major design projects in China, such as the Beijing 2008 Olympic medals and the information column in the Beijing Olympic Park.'

ADRC's collaboration with CAFA showcases innovative approaches to design research through a series of practice-based case studies, across a range of design disciplines.

Aimed particularly at design students and early career designers, the book focuses on the design process, highlighting the different approaches and methodologies by designers in both institutions. It explores the context of design in industrial, community and regional settings and its social, cultural and economic impact. The book is translated into English and Chinese.

The book is available for £23 per copy plus £3.75 P&P. For more information and a book order form, please contact k.a.christer@shu.ac.uk