Design thinking - what is it?

Definition of design thinking

Design thinking is a method of creative problem solving that was first defined in the 1960s in the United States.

Its goal is to provide innovative solutions by using specific work methods that stimulate creativity. All activities are then translated into a business diagram.

Design thinking is based on design thinking, the task of which is to provide creative solutions. It is such a universal method that it can be used from a start-up to a large corporation.

The motto of design thinking is "doing, not talking", so writing down every detail of a project is converted into a multi-stage division of tasks extending and specifying subsequent threads.

Such design thinking can be divided into two stages: a specific process divided into stages, and a distinctive mindset and attitude.

Design stages using the design thinking method

Design thinking aims to create and implement innovative solutions.

In practice, there are different design stages and their nomenclature. Ultimately, however, they come down to an analogous course of action. The design thinking process has been divided into 5 stages, according to which you should go through the course of creative design.

The most common division of the design process using the design thinking method is as follows:

Empathy

New solutions are created mainly for people. For this reason, it is important to know the needs of a given group of people. That is why empathy is the starting point for any project created using the design thinking method. To find the right solution, you need to get into the skin of the persona for which it is to be prepared. In this case, focus groups will not work well. It is better to observe the behavior of potential users and look for inspiration in them to create an improved design.

Defining the problem

At this stage, you need to define the exact problem that you will need to address. Broadening the horizons and the existing framework is necessary here, so as not to limit your imagination. Remember not to define the problem too narrowly or too broadly, so that the available solutions will not be limited by rigid frames. Techniques such as “5 x why” or mapping the problem on the “how?” Axis can be used to define the problem. vs what for? ”.

Ideas

This stage consists in creating as many ideas for solutions as possible relating to a predefined problem.

Useful in this situation will be brainstorming, which allows you to get rid of limitations and free creative thinking. It is important to follow the rules of brainstorming and, among other things, not to judge the ideas of others or get used to your idea. Such a creative session should end with a specific solution that will be selected from selected ideas, for example by voting the participants for the best ideas in their opinion.

Prototypes

Prototyping is an indispensable element of design thinking. Building prototypes shouldn't be a complicated process, however. For construction, you can use components such as cardboard, polystyrene, wood or anything else. It is important not to focus on advanced technical details, but on your own feelings and experiences. The most important thing is to initially visualize the idea, because then it will be possible to test the prototype in the natural environment. Each of the subsequent prototypes should be built with the user in mind and answer a specific question.

Tests

Contrary to appearances, this stage is extremely important and should not be omitted in the course of the project. It consists in testing the item in a real environment, thanks to which you can check its correct functioning. Each prototype is assessed by the group and the best one is selected for further refinement. Testing should be repeated until satisfactory results are obtained. When the testing process is successful, it means the product is ready for market entry.

Why is it worth using design thinking in your projects?

Design thinking is a universal method that can be used not only when it comes to designing new products, but also, for example, looking for innovative solutions for a given situation.

In this way, it is possible to solve complex problems, even business ones. Design thinking provides a fresh look at a given situation, thanks to which you can rediscover the problem and get closer to finding the right solution.

The design process is open, so even people who have different professional experience on a daily basis can get involved in it. Thanks to this, you can look at the problem from different points of view.