[3]: 57 [7][a] Its stated aim is to advance the profession of graphic design in Quebec and to help its members develop both professionally and financially.
[8] Its activities include professional development, co-organizing the Grafika design awards competition, lobbying, and the DGA certification program.
[3]: 59 The history of the SDGQ can be traced back to 1972 when Quebec graphic designers, Georges Beaupré and Roger Lafortune,[6][9]: 51 formed a committee to found the Société des graphistes du Québec (SGQ).
[2][6][9]: 51 On June 14, 2011, during its annual general meeting, the SDGQ officially launched its certification program for graphic designers in Quebec.
[18] A plan to align the DGA and RGD certifications was announced in 2012,[19][20] and the written examination portion of the process was set to harmonize within 5 years.