If Manchester is to become the world digital city it hopes to be, it needs to up its design game.

That is the conclusion of a study into design in Manchester launched this week by Manchester City Council leader Sir Richard Leese.

The ambitious plan is to leverage the power of design to support Manchester’s 10-year development strategy.

A preparatory study, "Creating A Manchester Design Manifesto," has been published to guide progress. It records steps taken so far, but urges further movement.

"The importance of creating a world-class digital city cannot be overstated.
Manchester’s distinctive brand of digital that can compete on the global
stage is one where cultural context and creative talent are married
seamlessly with technical skills and connectivity," the document stated.

"This is important for Manchester, since it is closely linked with creating an
investment environment that is attractive for innovative companies large
and small. It is also a trend in which Manchester has taken a leading role."