In this era of technological development and the demands of human needs, we cannot mindlessly choose a problem-solving approach, especially when designing. One of the most applicable approaches in various fields like business, education, and government is design thinking. Many people have proven that this approach is the most effective solution, innovative, relevant, and, of course, applicable in addressing these real-life challenges.
By prioritizing understanding user needs, creative ideation, and iterative experimentation, design thinking becomes an essential foundation for anyone looking to solve problems or create meaningful change. Therefore, it is important for us to understand the basic concepts, main stages, and applications so that we can make a concrete impact in our daily lives and professional world.
In this article, we will take you on a journey to explore the essence of design thinking, uncover the whole process, and demonstrate how to apply this approach effectively in real-world scenarios.
Table of Contents
Design thinking is an innovative approach to problem-solving that prioritizes the needs of users. It combines a profound understanding of human behavior with the exploration of creative ideas and logical reasoning, resulting in effective solutions that is applicable in real-world scenarios. This method’s origin is from two pivotal identities that significantly contributed to its development and popularity: IDEO and Stanford d.school.
IDEO is a global design and innovative consultant company from the USA that was established in 1991 by David Kelley, Bill Moggridge, and Mike Nuttall. This company is famous for its success in applying design processes to create creative solutions. IDEO developed and introduced the term “design thinking” as a systematic approach to innovation that places user needs and experiences at the center of the solution development process.
On the other hand, the Stanford d.school, formally known as the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford University, was founded by David Kelley as an academic hub for advancing design thinking. Since the early 2000s, it has distinguished itself as a center of innovative learning and research. It played a pivotal role in shaping the five key stages of design thinking: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test.
Design thinking has three basic aspects. First, the approach is staged, with steps such as empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing. Second, it is a mindset-based approach, valuing people, innovation, and the willingness to attempt. Third, it is integration-based, meaning it can be combined with other approaches like lean startup or agile to accelerate innovation.
To thoroughly understand design thinking, one must first recognize the approach that acts as its underlying framework. The stage-based approach is a popular method for dividing the design thinking process into methodical processes that yield targeted and directed solutions.
Before we get deeper into the five design thinking stages, it’s essential to understand that this isn’t a random process; rather, it’s a series of steps that are interconnected. Each stage is designed to make a concept into a viable, relevant, and effective solution. Here are the five design thinking stages you should be aware of:
This stage focuses on understanding the users’ demands, wishes, and issues. The process involves observation, interview, and direct interaction with users to gain accurate information.
The define stage is the process of formulating a human-centered problem statement. At this stage, data and findings from the empathize phase are analyzed to identify the core problem. The result is a clear and focused problem statement. A good problem statement will help the team focus on the core goals and avoid irrelevant solutions.
At this stage, a wealth of creative solutions emerges from boundless brainstorming sessions that embrace innovative strategies. Every idea, whether grounded in reality or a bit unconventional, is open for exploration and development. Additionally, this stage emphasizes generating various ideas before narrowing down to the most promising one. Such an approach paves the way for an extraordinary breakthrough.
Next, in the prototype stage, the idea has been chosen. The idea is now interpreted as a model form or simple simulation to test the concept quickly and efficiently. The prototype does not have to be perfect, just a simple form to be easily tested and modified. This stage aims to visualize the idea, making it comprehensible, easy to evaluate, and suitable for further development.
The prototype was tested directly with users to gather feedback. The evaluation results from these tests were used to refine and develop the solution for optimal performance. This cycle of testing and improvement ensures that the final solution is optimal, sustainable, and has a real impact on users.
The implementation of design thinking in large companies commonly focuses on user-centered innovation. With the support of creative thinking, this innovation generates a fresh and relevant solution. Each company maintains an approach that is harmonious with the work culture and the product line. The following examples illustrate the implementation of design thinking and explanations for each.
Apple applies the design thinking method by emphasizing simplicity, aesthetics, and intuitive user experience. The development process focuses on the design details. Apple thoroughly analyzes everything, from the physical product shape to the interface interaction. As a result, all the products are not only functional but also have a deep connection with the users.
Google combines design thinking with rapid experimentation and iterative testing. This approach is applied in the development of services such as Google Search, Gmail, and Android, where features are tested in stages with users and then refined based on the feedback received.
Adobe applies design thinking in the development of creative products such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Adobe XD. The company focuses on a deep understanding of creators’ needs, providing features that simplify the creative process while also offering freedom to innovate.
IBM integrates design thinking into its business strategy through a framework called the “IBM Design Thinking Framework.” They apply this approach not only in product development but also in designing complex solutions in technology, data analysis, and consulting services, involving cross-team collaboration and focusing on achieving tangible results for the clients.
During the design thinking process, each created concept is evaluated for both creativity and its capacity to provide meaningful solutions. To achieve those goals, three vital aspects serve as the foundation for success. They are as follows:
The solution must be appealing and truly meet the needs and desires of users, which can be determined by focusing on aspects of experience, emotion, and relevance to human needs. Furthermore, in its implementation, the initial focus of this process is to understand and empathize with users, not merely apply solutions based on organizational assumptions.
The ability to technically realize a solution is determined by the availability of the necessary resources, technology, and expertise. At this stage, the design team must assess the success rate of the formulated solution. They need to evaluate whether the available resources, technology, and expertise are sufficient to support the work process. Through this evaluation, the team can ensure that the solution is not only conceptually sound but also realistic to implement.
To determine the business or sustainability viability of a solution, we can see its profit potential, operational costs, and the long-term impact it generates. At this stage, it’s necessary to ensure that the design is not only desirable and feasible, but also capable of generating real value in the final outcome.
Design thinking is more than merely addressing problems. Rather, they provide a framework for combining creativity, insight, and empathy to produce unique solutions. This approach enables individuals and organizations to investigate unique ideas, test new concepts in an organized manner, and validate the results based on the consumers’ actual needs.
Furthermore, carefully following the design thinking stages helps ensure that the solution is both unique and useful. The solution can also be presented technically, with a long-term value for growing businesses and civilization.
Design thinking has become a strategic tool capable of turning challenges into opportunities. Especially amidst the increasingly rapid dynamics of business and technology, design thinking will help organizations adapt and thrive. Start applying the concepts of the design thinking approach in your daily life. From identifying problems to testing ideas and creating creative solutions, this approach is truly effective. It’s time to act now, because the future of innovation is in your hands.
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