Design Thinking
Applying a human-centered, iterative approach to problem-solving and innovation, involving empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing.
Proficiency Level
Level 1 (Follow)
- Participates actively and openly in Design Thinking activities (e.g., empathy interviews, brainstorming) when guided by a facilitator.
- Uses basic Design Thinking tools or templates (e.g., empathy maps, idea cards) as instructed.
- Shows willingness to consider user perspectives when discussing problems.
Level 2 (Assist)
- Assists facilitators in preparing materials and setting up logistics for Design Thinking workshops.
- Helps synthesize research findings from empathy interviews or observations into themes or insights.
- Supports the creation of simple prototypes (e.g., sketches, mock-ups) based on team ideas.
Level 3 (Apply)
- Applies core Design Thinking methods (e.g., persona creation, journey mapping, 'How Might We' questions, basic prototyping and testing) to tackle specific problems within a project.
- Conducts user research (interviews, observations) to gain empathy for user needs.
- Iterates on solutions based on user feedback gathered during testing.
Level 4 (Ensure)
- Plans and facilitates end-to-end Design Thinking workshops or sprints for teams.
- Guides teams effectively through all phases: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, test.
- Ensures resulting solutions are genuinely user-centered, validated, and address the core problem definition.
- Coaches team members on applying Design Thinking principles and methods.
Level 5 (Strategise)
- Develops strategies for integrating Design Thinking methodologies into the organisation's standard product development, service design, or problem-solving processes.
- Champions a human-centered design culture across the organisation.
- Trains, mentors, and builds a community of Design Thinking practitioners within the organisation.