I first learnt about Design Thinking while studying UX Design and have used it ever since. So what exactly is it? Basically, Design Thinking is a problem-solving approach from a user-centered point of view. Product Designers use it to redefine problems, prototype and test innovative solutions. However, this approach is not only reserved for designers or the creative industry. Nowadays, large consulting firms like McKinsey & Company are also enjoying the benefits of this problem-solving method.
Design Thinking has become an increasingly popular tool for companies, especially those looking to develop new products and services. And more companies now are investing in Design Thinking training programs to help employees gain the skills they need to think creatively and solve problems more effectively.
Design Thinking training programs offer employees the opportunity to learn the process of design thinking, from understanding the customer’s needs and wants, to engaging in creative problem-solving techniques. Through these corporate training ideas, employees can learn how to apply design thinking principles in their work environment, which can result in improved customer experience, increased productivity and efficiency, as well as a better overall bottom line for the company.
I arrange my Design Thinking training into five areas of focus:
Discovery In the first phase we learn to define the challenges.
Interpretation Next I encourage all participants to share their stories and insights. These can include examples personal experiences, retrospective reflections of what went well and what didn't, or suggestions for present challenges.
Ideation Now that we have a better idea of the problem defined, we start the brainstorming phase for possible solutions.
Experimentation In Design this stage would look at building prototypes with workable solutions for digital platforms etc. In corporate training i’ve adapted this to include…. testing..
Evolution Here I remind participants that Design Thinking is an iterative approach, whereby solutions made are adaptable to feedback. This stage implements an agile approach and feedback is encouraged between all stages of the process and again after completion of the training. In this way the company and its’ employess can revise the solutions implemented and decide if any adjustments need to be made.
Benefits of Design Thinking
Encourages Collaboration
It involves members from different teams and thus encourages critical thinking from different perspectives and creative ideas and solutions.
It’s adaptive
As I mentioned before, design thinking can be used in various types of companies, from digital creative agencies to finance and consulting firms.
It’s User-Centerd
Design thinking encourages us to come up with creative solutions from the user’s point of view. It provides trainees to see the problem form a different perspective and in this way be able to empathise with the user. This includes following the user on their emotional journey to understand the highs and frustration points they may feel when engaging with the company’s products or services.
Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that involves understanding users, challenging assumptions, and redefining problems in order to come up with innovative solutions. It's a valuable tool for companies looking to stay competitive in today's rapidly changing business landscape.
Investing in design thinking training programs can help companies ensure their success in the future by equipping their employees with the skills they need to innovate and adapt to changing market conditions. By fostering a culture of design thinking, companies can encourage collaboration between employees and create a more agile and responsive organisation.