Using Innovation, Design, and Branding to Establish a "Taiwan-based Globalized Value Network" With the advent of globalization and the knowledge-based economy, Taiwan's low cost manufacturing is no longer able to survive the intensely competitive environment of international markets. In order to cope with international competition, we need to make use of our existing industrial advantages, cultivate our R&D talent, design capabilities, and establish an environment conducive to value-added industrial development. In 2002 the government announced the Cultural Creative Industry Development Plan under "Challenge 2008 National Development Plan." It includes a National Design Center among its key goals. In 2003, under the auspices of the government, the Taiwan Design Center (TDC) was established. TDC comprises a network with design as its core value, using innovation, design, and branding to help upgrade and reform the nation's businesses. Remembering the past, Welcoming the Future During the 70's the Design Promotion Center under the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) provided comprehensive design consultation for the nation's exporters. For 20 years it helped Taiwan's exporters develop international markets. During the 90's, technology and capital intensive manufacturing was the trend and Taiwan's overall economic development began transitioning to Original Design Manufacture (ODM). During the 21st century, TDC with a professional staff and various advanced practices will allow creativity to flourish and productivity to increase. It will provide the necessary creativity and talent, using innovation, design, and branding to add value to Taiwan products and establish a Taiwan-based Globalized Value Network.