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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Furniture Designer 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101672  Occupational Certificate: Furniture Designer 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - FPMSETA (ARTS) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Design Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  555  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  SAQA 10128/20  2020-03-20  2025-03-20 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-03-20   2029-03-20  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Furniture Designer. A Furniture Designer Plans, designs, develops and documents furniture products for manufacturing with particular emphasis on ergonomic (human) factors, marketing considerations and manufacturability, and prepares them for prototype, mass, batch or once-off production.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Solve furniture design problems through the design of product solutions by independently integrating design principles and applying critical thinking skills to analyse, synthesise and evaluate.
  • Apply research and analysis methodology which demonstrate detailed knowledge of the practice of furniture design and its relationship to other practices.
  • Use a range of design concept simulation methods, processes and techniques for communicating a furniture design solution which is aesthetical appealing and suitable to the rendering event.
  • Create marketable furniture concepts, design solutions and products addressing all aspects of the design brief and display good design and innovative characteristics.
  • Compile a comprehensive production pack for manufacturing of the product according to specifications given.

    Rationale:
    The Furniture Designer qualification opens learning opportunities in support of career pathing which did not exist before and which will strengthen the furniture industry. To harness and nurture furniture design skills will give prominence to an industry that has potential to be world class. The qualification will develop the skills necessary to bridge the gap between an idea, concept or a specific need in the furniture manufacturing industry that will be tasked with making the design into reality.

    This qualification will be attractive to a wide range of learners because the qualification does not only empower those with high cognitive skills but also includes learners that have strength in hands-on making skills. The course will also empower the students with a holistic understanding of the furniture value chain which will give them the opportunity to understand where their skills can add the greatest value.

    Industry will have access to qualified furniture designers who think in a constructive and design way producing creations that are both aesthetic and production friendly and have the ability to see a finished product in its entirety before production begins. This will mean that the production process can be planned down to the smallest detail to optimize production and cut down costs. Learners will have the ability to analyse post production in order to better streamline future projects and overall production efficiency.

    This qualification will not only ignite an interest in the furniture industry and strengthen the employability of a new generation but will also ignite a new generation of innovative entrepreneurs that will have the ability to use their skills and find employment across the furniture industry.

    School leavers that have an interest and passion for design are targeted, as well as people in the field of architecture and interior design who wishes to specialise in furniture design.

    The National Department of Arts & Culture and the National Department of Trade and Industry are currently driving the development of a National Design Policy. It is evident that this policy has the power to add value to most focus areas of the South Africa (SA) National policy document. The furniture design industry therefore has potential to add value to various sectors from education, housing, business sectors and even in tourism and leisure to mention only a few.

    To consciously drive a more responsible design ethos is vital. The intention of this qualification is not to focus on the skills at hand but to drive and develop a new mind-set and design ethos by focussing on the inclusion of universal and sustainable design principles from the outset. This will ensure that the upcoming generation of furniture designers will be equipped with different skills sets that will empower them to consciously add value to the design of a more sustainable, inclusive and human friendly world which will in the long-term highlight the significance of this qualification. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Level 4 with Mathematics.
    Or
  • Qualified artisan in the furniture industry. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:
    Knowledge Modules:
  • 216302001-KM-01, History of design and furniture: a Global perspective, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-02, History of design and furniture design - an African perspective, Level 6, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-03, History of design and furniture design, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-04, Introduction to human factors in furniture design, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-05, Ergonomics and anthropometrics, Level 6, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-06, Furniture design for inclusion, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-07, Furniture Technology, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-08, Furniture Technology, Level 6, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-09, Furniture Technology, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-10, Workshop Practices, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-11, Presentation through Design Media, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-12, Design media 2, Level 6, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-13, Design media 3, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-14, Furniture design business and project management, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-15, Furniture Design Theory 1, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-16, Furniture Design Theory 2, Level 6, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-17, Furniture Design Theory 3, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-18, Furniture Design and Ideation 1, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-19, Furniture Design and Ideation 2, Level 6, 8 Credits.
  • 216302001-KM-20, Furniture Design and Ideation 3, Level 7, 8 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 160.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 216302001-PM-01, Determine the objectives and constraints of the design brief by consulting with clients and stakeholders, Level 7, 20 Credits.
  • 216302001-PM-02, Apply market research and innovative thinking to formulate design concepts for furniture products according to the design brief, Level 7, 75 Credits.
  • 216302001-PM-03, Communicate and render two-dimensional and three-dimensional design solutions visually, orally and written, using appropriate language with reference to culture and style with clients, management, sales and manufacturing staff, Level 7, 75 Credits.
  • 216302001-PM-04, Harmonize aesthetic considerations with technical, functional, ecological and production requirements and is within the brief and budget of the client, Level 6, 20 Credits.
  • 216302001-PM-05, Produce a production manual for the manufacturing of a furniture product which include all information and documentation ready for sign-off and hand-over, Level 7, 20 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 210.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 216302001-WM-01, Furniture design brief clarification and project planning process, Level 7, 25 Credits.
  • 216302001-WM-02, Design research and development processes, Level 7, 55 Credits.
  • 216302001-WM-03, Furniture product rendering processes, Level 7, 55 Credits.
  • 216302001-WM-04, Furniture design for mass, batch or once-off production, Level 6, 25 Credits.
  • 216302001-WM-05, Furniture design finalization and hand over processes, Level 7, 25 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 185. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Solve furniture design problems through the design of product solutions by independently integrating design principles and applying critical thinking skills to analyse, synthesise and evaluate.
    2. Apply research and analysis methodology which demonstrate detailed knowledge of the practice of furniture design and its relationship to other practices.
    3. Use a range of design concept simulation methods, processes and techniques for communicating a furniture design solution which is aesthetical appealing and suitable to the rendering event.
    4. Create marketable furniture concepts, design solutions and products addressing all aspects of the design brief and display good design and innovative characteristics.
    5. Compile a comprehensive production pack for manufacturing of the product according to specifications given.
    6. Communicate, render, present and market a concept and furniture design solution to a client.
    7. Draft the production proposal for manufacturing of the furniture product.
    8. Plan the production of the furniture design and compile all production documentation. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • A holistic understanding of the client need and design brief is applied.
  • Suitable materials and manufacturing processes are used in product solutions.
  • The aesthetic and functional requirements of the user are addressed by the furniture design solutions.
  • Management of the design process in unfamiliar and variable contexts is demonstrated through product solutions.
  • Legislation and environmental impact of furniture design solutions is applied.
  • Complex problems in the design brief are identified, analysed and solved through the furniture design solutions.
  • Innovation and commercial viability are showcased through design solutions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Design choices are adequately presented with physical and theoretical evidence.
  • Independent viewpoints are presented through design thinking.
  • Conceptual solutions are substantiated by relevant research on furniture trends, styles, markets and materials.
  • Information sources and market analysis are independently validated and is relevant to the design solution and indicates possible investors, customers, niche markets, gaps and trends.
  • The suitability of materials to the design concept is researched (by analysing and evaluating the composition, properties, characteristics and compatibility).
  • Manufacturing processes are researched and viability of production is substantiated.
  • Information is properly evaluated and managed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Advanced two dimensional analogue and digital drawing techniques are used in furniture design solutions to create, logically evolve, conceptually simulate and communicate design ideas.
  • Advanced three dimensional analogue and digital modelling techniques are used in furniture design solutions to create, logically evolve, conceptually simulate and communicate design ideas.
  • Product solution information (two and three dimensional) is combined and presented orally, in print or electronically via the internet using appropriate occupational discourse.
  • Evidence of application of design-make-test-refine practices is substantiated in the range of presentation drawings.
  • A range of technical drawings is produced which shows a sound understanding of the technical processes involved in the manufacturing of the piece of furniture.
  • A quality presentation is compiled which communicates the design process from concept to final design and displays the work and is presented applying clear communication, professionalism in speech, demeanour and appearance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Criteria for furniture design solution (final product) with aesthetic appeal, a common theme (style), innovativeness and lateral thinking is defined, discussed and applied.
  • Design details, design elements and sound design principles (such as aesthetic and ergonomic principles) are outlined, applied and incorporated per industry requirements.
  • Manufacturer capability, machine availability and outsourcing of components are investigated, considered and integrated in the furniture design.
  • Modification or change of design to incorporate requests for changes (which may be aesthetic or technical of nature) is planned, designed and executed.
  • Key professional practices in relation to the product solutions are discussed, applied and justified.
  • Adherence to professional practice and ethical norms of the furniture design sector is applied as per industry requirements.
  • Legal and ethical aspects of originality and intellectual property are applied according to industry requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • A thorough understanding of construction methods and manufacturability of furniture design is evident in the production proposal.
  • Sample designs/prototypes (workmanship, finishes, construction method, overall design, proportions and balance, material selection, combination and compatibility) are generated/made using computer-aided design (CAD), card models, sketches or hard prototypes demonstrating competence in resolving of complex problems applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments.
  • The feasibility of the furniture product is determined taking into consideration budget constraints, expectation of the client and external factors that may impact on the timeline and production.
  • Plans and schedules are evaluated with respect to the availability of resources and raw materials and realistic timelines are suggested.
  • The ability to work in a design team to complete projects form inception to completion (can also be project management) is demonstrated.
  • A comprehensive production pack for manufacturing of the product is compiled and entails final construction drawings, bill of materials with costing and budget, cutting lists, assembly specifications, lead times and planning of outsourced components.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification has been compared with two international qualifications, namely:
  • Bachelor Degree in Product Design: Furniture offered by the Sheffield Hallam University.
  • Bachelor Degree in Furniture Design offered by the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD).

    United Kingdom:
    The Bachelor Degree in Product Design: Furniture is a three year programme which is accredited by the Chartered Society of Designers. The focus of the qualification is to foster a creative ability with a design culture that considers all aspects of furniture and related product design, and is based on a philosophy that thrives on new ideas, new ways of doing things and the exploration of creative possibilities. It includes a work experience component where learners are placed at companies where they have the opportunity to apply the learning, develop new and existing skills and increase knowledge and experience to achieve competence in small to bulk production.

    It may include the following typical modules:
  • Year One includes: creative design projects, design skills, workshop skills, information technology skills, contextual studies, technology, human centred design, introduction to computer-aided design (CAD), innovation strategies, business and marketing, visual and presentation skills.
  • Year Two includes: live design projects, design and innovation, technology, business and marketing, CAD, professional practice, design for public exhibition, design theory and history and an overseas study tour.
  • Year Three includes: design projects and design-related dissertation.

    The assessment is based on coursework.

    United States:
    The Bachelor's Degree (B Degree) in Furniture Design offered by RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) is a four year programme and encompasses theory, skills, context, research and professional practices with a focus on new materials and technologies and innovation. The undergraduate programme includes:
  • Year One: Drawing, Design, Spatial Dynamics and Liberal Arts courses.
  • Year Two: Studio Methods, Drawing for Furniture 2D + 3D, Liberal Arts elective, Design Practice, History of Furniture.
  • Year Three: Studio methods, Research, Liberal Arts.
  • Year Four: Advanced Furniture Studio methods, Professional Practice/Portfolio, Liberal Arts, Degree Project as well as a thesis project which focus on professional practices and to create a final body of work that demonstrates a high level of understanding of the principles of furniture design while simultaneously expressing their own vision and aesthetic strengths.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares well with the two international qualifications and includes all aspects of the two qualifications combined as well as the focus on innovation and improved technology. Similar to the international qualifications it includes a thesis/dissertation in the final year as well as the workplace component. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation is possible with:
  • Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Arts: Industrial Design, Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation is possible with:
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Design, Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for external assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
    None specified.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) website.

    The curriculum title and code is: Furniture Designer: 216302001.

    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
  • This is not a trade qualification.

    Part Qualifications:
    None. 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.