In 2004, the directors of a group of design programmes in Colombia were meeting frequently to discuss academic approaches to design. The need for an organised body representing and promoting Design in Colombia as an academic discipline became evident.

This small group of members announced their intent to create a Colombian design network. At the the first official meeting, on 18 July, 29 directors from recognised design programmes signed the constitution of the 'Asociación Colombiana Red Académica de Diseño / RAD' (Colombian Academic Design Network). RAD members agreed to its mission, network activities, rights and obligations at the first meeting.

Since then, the Colombian academic network has been working with the main mission statement to 'represent and promote Design as an academic discipline, both in local and international realms,' The members unites as a network to construct academic quality through meetings and joint action.