This paper is an output of a Portuguese public research project: "DeSid"--"design as a company's strategic resource: a study of the impacts of design" (FCT). The "DeSid" research project was created with the main purpose to make a diagnosis of the use of design inside the Portuguese manufacturing industry. This paper refers to one of the activities of that research project: the national survey to the Portuguese manufacturing industry. The main drivers for the use of design in the companies are the "image/reputation" followed by the "innovation ability." The relationship between design and innovation is relevant for the majority of firms. From a brief analysis of the survey results it is also possible to acknowledge that Portuguese firms in general still underestimate the potential of design as a strategic resource.