CDI is a multi-campus research center within the state-wide University of North Carolina. Our goal is to catalyze economic transformation of the Piedmont area through design-focused activity based on advanced digital technologies.

Currently CDI's constituent campuses are the UNC School of the Arts and Winston-Salem State University, collaborating with Forsyth Technical Community College.

Funding is in place and plans are underway to create a 33,000 square-foot permanent facility. Meanwhile CDI is operating from an interim facility in downtown Winston-Salem. Our high-rise site overlooks the emerging Piedmont Triad Research Park.

The staff and collaborators are assembling technologies to support health care and wellbeing through the design of products and services and to serve education, communication and entertainment through digital creations such as animations, games, simulations, online courseware and mobile apps.

We are beginning projects related to CDI's key capabilities in motion capture and rapid prototyping. Collaborators are also developing associated techniques in data analysis, modeling and visualization.

Much of CDI's work goes beyond using existing knowledge and technologies: our approach is to conduct research in order to generate new ideas, techniques and educational content. CDI collaborators range internationally as we contribute to relevant research areas. We aim to develop research results as entrepreneurial ventures and marketable innovations. We also work to support existing businesses and attract new ones to the region.

A growing number of workshops and other enrichment programs offer learning opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds, throughout our community. These programs tend to bring together topics that are normally considered "artistic" or "scientific." By supporting engagement with digital media that combine these aspects of thinking and productivity, CDI aims to strengthen both "soft skills" and "STEM" skills (in science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

Interdisciplinary blends are core to CDI's innovative approach, for both learning and research. Through continually evolving collaborations, we are steadily expanding the range of programs and services. Please visit us and join the Idea Exchange, workshops and other emerging programs.