Design thinking is a human-centered problem-solving approach that has been around for years and gaining significant popularity in recent years. The process allows organizations to identify problems, generate new ideas, and create solutions that meet the needs of their users or customers. While it is often referred to as a process, we see it as in fact much more. We truly believe that it is also a mindset. One that encourages creativity, curiosity, and experimentation. For us it is clear, businesses and organizations choosing to use Design Thinking to boost their business, it is essential for success that they implement both aspects together.
But first, the basics – what is the Design Thinking process?
Design Thinking involves a series of steps to help individuals and teams understand and solve complex problems – starting with understanding the Problem and then working through a solution.
Empathize
Understand the problem by gathering information about the people and stakeholders involved.
Define
Define the problem statement to be addressed and the needs of users and clients.
Ideation
Generate a wide range of possible solutions to the problem.
Prototyping
Build a physical or digital representation of the chosen solution.
Testing
Test the solution with users to gain feedback and iterate on the design.
The graphic above takes a stab at showing you how Design Thinking is its non-linear in its linearity. Huh? What? I know… the short and simple explanation is that it is important to take the time to go through each step. However, within the process, there may be multiple iterations between steps as you gain insights, experience, and uncover new questions. How much time you take on the process depends on the size, complexity and importance of the problem needing to be solved.
Now, what about this Design thinking mindset?
Design thinking is a mindset that encourages individuals to approach problems in a human-centered way with an emphasis on empathy, collaboration, and experimentation. It enables a way of thinking that is more open and curious while being focused on understanding people’s needs and finding innovative solutions to meet those needs.
As you can see in the animation above, a Design Thinking mindset has many characteristics. Here are a few of my favourites to get you started!
- Be unashamedly Curiosity: Ask lots of questions. Be a detective.
- Learn through Experimentation: A willingness to explore through iteration and see failure as an opportunity to learn through and grow.
- Embrace uncertainty: Risk-taking is encouraged and look forward to surprises, these are the magical moments.
- Think Big: Envision a radical new future, always think, how can I make it happen.
Innovation and Business Development experts have been saying that “In today’s rapidly changing world, businesses and organizations need to be agile and adaptable,” for years now. For many organizations, this pressure can be quite overwhelming. While many companies have successfully jumped on the bandwagon, the truth is that others are surviving by the skin of their teeth and a bit of luck. Yes, it takes time. Yes, it takes work. Yes, it takes a mindset and culture change. But the effort is worth it. No company must do it all on their own. With a good coach, you can build a sustainable process and a culture that fits your company. By using a human-centered approach such as Design Thinking to problem-solving combined with a culture of innovation and experimentation, your organization will be well on its way to creating user-centered solutions that are more likely to be successful with a whole lot less risk, while probably also having more fun. So… what’s stopping you?