Design Thinking basics for Engineers.pdf
0 likes259 views
The presentation explains the basics steps of the design thinking and tools that can be used in each steps of design thinking.
Design Thinking basics for Engineers.pdf
- 1. One Day Online Workshop Under IIC-GCE Introduction to Innovation & Design Thinking Innovation and Design Thinking are critical for modern businesses to grow in the competitive world. Innovation drives growth by creating novel solutions, while Design Thinking provides a human-centered methodology to achieve these breakthroughs. Together, they empower organizations to tackle complex challenges with creativity and practicality. Dr.Devaraj E CMR University
- 2. What is Invention and Innovation? BMW GINA Light Visionary Model
- 3. Why Design Thinking? Design Thinking is a powerful, human-centered approach that integrates user needs with technological possibilities and business viability. It understand the end-user's challenges and desires to create truly impactful solutions. By emphasizing empathy, Design Thinking ensures that solutions are not just innovative, but also deeply relevant and desirable to the people they serve. Leading companies like Google, Apple have successfully leveraged this methodology to tackle some of the most complex challenges in their respective industries, from user experience to strategic growth.
- 4. Design Thinking: A Mindset Shift From Problem-Solving Traditional approaches often jump straight to solving predefined problems, which can lead to incomplete or misdirected solutions. To Solution-Finding Design Thinking encourages exploring the problem space deeply to uncover underlying needs, leading to more innovative and effective solutions.
- 5. The 5 Stages of Design Thinking: An Overview Empathize Understand users' needs Define State the problem Ideate Brainstorm solutions Prototype Build testable models Test Gather user feedback These five stages form a non-linear, iterative process, meaning teams often cycle back and forth between stages based on feedback and new insights. This iterative nature is particularly effective for tackling "wicked problems" – complex, ill-defined challenges with no obvious solutions.
- 6. Stage 1: Empathize Understanding Your Users This foundational stage involves deeply understanding the people you are designing for. It's about stepping into their shoes to grasp their needs, motivations, pain points, and context. Key Activities Interviews: Conducting one-on-one conversations to uncover personal stories and perspectives. Observations: Watching users interact with products or environments in their natural settings. The goal is to suspend assumptions and biases, allowing true user insights to emerge and form the basis for effective solutions.
- 7. Why Empathy Matters in Engineering Bridging Gaps Empathy connects technical work with its real-world impact, ensuring solutions meet user needs. Inclusive Solutions It drives the creation of products that serve diverse users effectively and equitably. Enhanced Collaboration Empathy strengthens bonds between engineers, designers, and product managers. Engineer Motivation Connecting code to people's lives provides a deeper sense of purpose and motivation. Empathy is the critical link between engineering excellence and user satisfaction. By understanding our users deeply, we foster innovation that truly makes a difference in their daily lives, transforming abstract code into tangible benefits.
- 8. Cognitive vs. Affective Empathy in Engineering Cognitive Empathy This involves intellectually understanding users' thoughts, needs, and motivations. It's about putting yourself in their shoes logically to grasp their view. In engineering, cognitive empathy is key for problem-solving and foundational to design thinking, helping engineers design spontaneous interfaces. Affective Empathy Affective empathy is the emotional response to users experiences, feeling what they feel. It builds a deeper connection and promotes a sense of responsibility. Both types of empathy are essential for making ethical and inclusive engineering decisions, ensuring products are not only functional but also human-centric. Both cognitive and affective empathy are vital. Cognitive empathy helps us design functional solutions, while affective empathy ensures our solutions are compassionate and inclusive.
- 9. Empathy Techniques: User Interviews Direct Conversations Engage users one-on-one to uncover their specific needs, frustrations, and underlying motivations. This direct interaction offers rich qualitative data. Open-Ended Questions Use questions that encourage detailed responses beyond simple "yes" or "no" to reveal deeper insights and goals, promoting authentic dialogue. Building Trust Establish a comfortable, non-judgmental environment to encourage honest and detailed feedback, crucial for uncovering true pain points. Real-World Examples Consider interviewing users with diverse needs, such as individuals with disabilities, to gather unique insights for creating accessible and inclusive solutions. User interviews are indispensable for gathering qualitative data and understanding the human element behind product interactions. They provide unfiltered insights that direct observation might miss, guiding design decisions toward user- centric solutions.
- 10. Stage 2: Define Synthesizing Insights After empathizing, the Define stage is where you synthesize all the gathered information to pinpoint core problems and insights. It's about making sense of the data. Problem Statement The key outcome is a clear, human-centered problem statement that frames the challenge from the user's view. It should be actionable and inspire solutions. Example "Busy parents need quick, healthy meal options because they lack time for elaborate cooking after work, leading to unhealthy takeout." Guiding Ideation This well-defined problem statement acts as a compass, guiding the future ideation phase towards relevant and impactful solutions.
- 11. Why Problem Framing Matters Clear Direction Sets a precise direction and scope for developing effective solutions. Resource Efficiency Prevents the waste of valuable resources on irrelevant or misdirected fixes. Sparks Creativity Encourages innovative thinking by reframing challenges as exciting opportunities. Proven Outcomes Supported by various studies demonstrating significantly better outcomes when problems are well- framed.
- 12. Crafting Problem Statements User-Centered Focus Problem statements must clearly articulate the user's needs, challenges, and frustrations. Clarity They should be straightforward, easy to understand, and to the point, avoiding jargon. Guide Ideation Effective problem statements serve as a beacon, guiding the entire ideation and solution development process. Avoid Bias Critically, they must be free from assumptions and solution bias, focusing purely on the problem itself.
- 13. The "How Might We" (HMW) Format The "How Might We" (HMW) format is a powerful tool that transforms defined problems into open-ended, optimistic questions. This reframing encourages a shift from identifying obstacles to exploring possibilities. • Example: Instead of "Users struggle with onboarding," an HMW question would be: "How might we improve the onboarding experience for new users?" • This format fosters exploration and opens up multiple solution paths, rather than narrowing focus to a single answer. • HMW questions are widely adopted in design thinking workshops to spark creativity and innovation.
- 14. Identifying Root Causes: The 5 Whys Method The 5 Whys method is a simple yet highly effective technique used to uncover the root cause of a problem by repeatedly asking the question "Why?" until the fundamental issue is identified. Typically, asking "Why?" five times is sufficient to dig deep enough, though it can vary. Example: Sales are declining. 1. Why? (Lack of new customers) → 2. Why? (Ineffective marketing) → 3. Why? (Outdated infourmation about product) → 4. Why? (No market research in 6 months) → 5. Why? (Budget cuts check research department) This method is excellent for team discussions, providing clarity and helping to move beyond superficial symptoms to the core of the problem.
- 15. Combining Tools for Effective Problem Framing Optimizing problem framing involves integrating multiple powerful tools: Empathy Synthesis Use insights from user research to deeply inform and shape initial problem statements, ensuring they are truly human-centered. HMW Questions Reframe the identified challenges into "How Might We" questions, fostering an environment of creative exploration and positive solution generation. Root Cause Analysis Employ the 5 Whys and Fishbone diagrams to meticulously identify the underlying root causes, moving beyond symptoms to the core issues. Iterative Process Understand that problem framing is an iterative loop; continuous refinement improves problem clarity and enhances the fit of potential solutions.
- 16. Stage 3: Ideate Brainstorming Solutions The Ideate stage is where creativity truly takes flight. The goal is to generate a broad range of creative ideas without judgment, focusing on quantity over quality initially. No idea is too wild or impossible at this point. Techniques Brainstorming: Group sessions to rapidly generate diverse ideas. Mind Mapping: Visualizing connections between ideas and concepts. Encouraging wild and diverse solutions expands the area of possibilities, ensuring that truly new approaches are considered.
- 17. Generating Ideas Free-Flowing Ideas Coined by J.P. Guilford in 1956, divergent thinking involves generating a vast array of solutions without immediate judgment. Explore Many Possibilities It encourages exploring numerous unconventional possibilities, pushing beyond obvious answers to foster true innovation. No Judgment Zone The emphasis is on quantity and breadth, allowing for the free association of ideas to emerge naturally.
- 18. Brainstorming Rules for Effective Ideation 1 Defer Judgment Suspend all criticism and evaluation during the idea generation phase. The goal is quantity, not immediate quality, to ensure a safe space for all thoughts. 2 Encourage Wild Ideas Embrace unusual, unconventional, or even outlandish ideas. These "wild" concepts can often spark truly innovative solutions or lead to new perspectives. 3 Build on Others' Ideas Actively listen and expand upon the ideas shared by others. This collaborative synergy fosters a richer, more diverse pool of potential solutions. 4 Aim for Quantity Focus on generating as many ideas as possible. A larger volume increases the likelihood of discovering unique, breakthrough concepts that might otherwise be overlooked.
- 19. Mind Mapping: Visual Idea Exploration Mind mapping is a powerful visual tool that links ideas around a central concept. It helps organize thoughts, identify connections, and stimulate further creativity by mimicking the radial nature of the brain's thinking process. By visually expanding possibilities, mind mapping effectively supports divergent thinking, making complex information more accessible and generating new insights. Various tools, from simple paper sketches to sophisticated digital apps like MindMeister, can be used for effective mind mapping.
- 20. How Brainstorming & Mind Mapping Foster Divergence Safe Idea Flow Brainstorming provides a judgment-free environment, encouraging participants to freely express all ideas, no matter how unconventional. Visual Expansion Mind mapping visually organizes and expands upon initial thoughts, revealing new connections and stimulating further ideation in a structured way. Delayed Evaluation Both methods intentionally defer critical judgment, maximizing creative output and ensuring a broad range of ideas before analysis begins. Prepares for Refinement Together, they generate a rich pool of diverse ideas, perfectly preparing them for the subsequent phase of convergent refinement and selection.
- 21. Balancing Creativity and Focus Unlock Creativity Adhering to brainstorming rules fosters an environment where creativity can flourish, leading to a greater volume of innovative concepts. Structure Ideas Mind mapping serves as an invaluable tool for visually structuring complex ideas and identifying connections within the generated concepts. Optimal Solutions Consciously cycling between these complementary thinking modes ensures a comprehensive approach, ultimately leading to the most robust and impactful solutions.
- 22. Stages 4 & 5: Prototype and Test Prototype Build simple, low-fidelity models of ideas quickly and cost-effectively. This could be a sketch, a cardboard model. The aim is to make ideas tangible. Test Present prototypes to users and gather their feedback. Observe how they interact with the prototype and listen to their reactions. This stage is critical for learning what works and what doesn't. Iterate Based on user feedback, refine the solution, pin to a new approach, or scrap the idea and return to an earlier stage. This iterative cycle helps improve desirability, feasibility, and viability, ensuring the final solution meets user needs and business goals.
- 23. Low-Fidelity vs. High-Fidelity Prototypes Low-Fidelity Prototypes • Simple, quick, and inexpensive • Examples: sketches, paper models, basic wireframes • Ideal for early ideation and concept validation • Focus on core functionality and user flow High-Fidelity Prototypes • Detailed, interactive, and visually refined • Mimic the final product's look and feel • Used for user testing, validation, and stakeholder presentations • Enable precise feedback on aesthetics and interaction Rapid prototyping, regardless of fidelity, saves significant time and reduces the risk of costly changes late in the development cycle.
- 24. 3D Modeling Tools for Advanced Prototyping TinkerCAD A beginner-friendly, browser-based 3D CAD tool, ideal for introducing users to 3D design and simple model creation. Its intuitive interface makes it accessible for educational purposes and quick prototyping. SolidWorks A professional-grade CAD software offering advanced simulation, assembly design, and complex surfacing capabilities, essential for engineers developing intricate mechanical parts and products. AutoCAD & SketchUp Widely used for detailed 2D drafting and 3D architectural design, enabling precise planning and visualization of structures and interiors. These tools enable the creation of virtual prototypes and precise models, crucial for manufacturing and detailed engineering analysis.
- 25. Tangible Benefits of Effective Prototyping Cost Savings By catching design flaws early, prototyping can reduce overall project costs by up to 30%, avoiding expensive rework and material waste. Accelerated Development Fast feedback loops from prototyping can cut development cycles by as much as 50%, bringing products to market faster. Enhanced Communication Visual and interactive prototypes clarify concepts, improving communication across teams and with clients by up to 75%. Improved Product Quality Testing form, fit, function, and user experience with prototypes can lead to a 90% improvement in final product quality and user satisfaction.
- 26. Prototyping Bridges Imagination and Reality The Core of Innovation Prototyping is the essential bridge that transforms abstract ideas into tangible realities, driving innovation across all fields of product development and engineering. Strategic Tool Selection Choosing the right fidelity and tools, whether low-fi paper models or high-fidelity digital mockups, is critical and depends entirely on the specific project needs and objectives. Iterative Process for Success Continuous iteration and incorporating feedback are the fundamental keys to a successful design process, ensuring constant refinement and optimization. Engineering Practice Prototyping is not merely a step but an critical practice in modern engineering and product development, significantly mitigating risks and enhancing final outcomes.
- 27. Test & Iterate: Gathering Feedback from Users Surveys & Interviews Collect direct qualitative insights on user experience and needs. Usability Tests Observe real users interacting with the product to identify pain points. Analytics Utilize quantitative data to understand user behavior and product usage. Collecting both qualitative and quantitative data from users early and often is critical. This real user input significantly reduces assumptions and guesswork, as evidenced by statistics showing that 70% of product are driven by direct user feedback.
- 28. Iteration Loops Explained Build Develop a minimal viable product . Measure Collect data on user interaction and performance of the new build. Learn Analyze data to validate or invalidate hypotheses, gaining insights. The "Build → Measure → Learn" cycle is central to iterative design. These short, rapid cycles allow for quick validation of hypotheses, ensuring that each iteration refines the product based on real, empirical data. This iterative feedback loop is a core tenet of frameworks like IBM Design Thinking.
- 29. Test & Iterate for Success User feedback and iterative development are paramount for achieving product-market fit and sustained success. Essential for Product-Market Fit Continuous feedback ensures products meet genuine user needs. Accelerated Learning & Innovation The fail-fast mindset drives rapid experimentation and breakthroughs. Reduced Risk & Better Outcomes Early detection of issues leads to more efficient development. Embrace the cycle: Build, test, learn, pivot—and repeat for lasting success.
- 30. CASE STUDY The Jaipur Foot – Affordable Prosthetic The Jaipur Foot has revolutionized prosthetics for low-income person in India ,directly addressing the high cost and inconvenience of traditional limbs. Since its origin in 1975 by the BMVSS NGO, this innovative solution has benefited over 2 million individuals, restoring mobility and dignity. https://www.jaipurfoot.org/
- 31. Distribution & Scale by BMVSS Global Reach • Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) NGO, founded in 1975, is the primary organization behind the Jaipur Foot's widespread distribution. • Over 2.2 million limbs have been provided free of cost, transforming lives across continents. • BMVSS operates 30 clinics within India and has conducted 111 camps in 44 countries globally, expanding its humanitarian efforts. • Their work is supported by both the Indian government and various international donors, ensuring sustained impact.
- 32. Impact on Users & Communities Restored Mobility The Jaipur Foot empowers users to perform daily activities like walking, running, swimming, and cycling, significantly enhancing their physical capabilities. Patient-Centric Model BMVSS operates on a patient-centric model, offering same-day fitting without the need for prior appointments, ensuring immediate assistance and convenience.
- 33. Ongoing Innovation & Research Academic Collaborations The Jaipur Foot project actively collaborates with leading institutions like Stanford and MIT GEAR Lab to continuously improve prosthetic designs through advanced research. Design Focus Research focuses on developing lighter, more mass-manufacturable, and internationally tested feet that meet diverse global needs while maintaining affordability. Biomechanical Optimization The use of the Lower Leg Trajectory Error (LLTE) metric helps in biomechanical optimization, leading to more natural and efficient gait patterns for users. Clinical Trials Ongoing clinical trials are crucial for enhancing the performance, durability, and user satisfaction of the Jaipur Foot, ensuring its continued effectiveness.
- 34. Real-World Applications in Design Thinking Design Thinking is a human-centered innovation methodology that has transformed how organizations approach complex, user-centric problems. By focusing on deep empathy and iterative solutions, it has become a widely adopted framework across various industries, shaping the future of innovation by 2025.
- 35. Case Study 1: GE Healthcare - Pediatric MRI Redesign Problem & Solution Children often experience severe anxiety during MRI scans, leading to the need for sedation and compromised scan quality. GE Healthcare applied Design Thinking to this challenge, creating the "Adventure Series" MRI rooms. These rooms were transformed with themes like ships and underwater scenes, making the experience feel like an adventure rather than a medical procedure. Impact The redesign led to a 90% increase in patient satisfaction, significantly better scan quality, and a substantial reduction in the need for sedation. This innovative approach highlighted the power of empathy in healthcare design.
- 36. Case Study 2: Uber Eats - Localized Food Delivery Experience Uber Eats faced the complex challenge of adapting its food delivery service to diverse city food cultures and stakeholder needs around the globe. Their solution leveraged a robust Design Thinking approach. Immersive Research The team conducted immersive market research, spending time with delivery partners, restaurants, and end-users in various cities. This provided rich insights into local preferences, operational challenges,. Customized Features Based on this research, Uber Eats developed customized app features tailored to each city's unique demands. This included adapting menu displays, payment options, and delivery logistics to local conditions. Continuous Adaptation The platform's success is built on continuous testing and adaptation based on user feedback. This iterative process ensures that the service remains relevant and highly satisfying for all stakeholders in a constantly evolving market.
- 37. Design Thinking Impact Across Sectors Design Thinking has proven its transformative power across diverse sectors, consistently delivering enhanced satisfaction, usability, and business growth. Empathy drives innovation: By focusing on deep user understanding, Design Thinking helps define the right problems to solve, leading to truly impactful solutions. Iterative prototyping: The cycle of building and testing reduces risk, accelerates learning, and refines solutions based on real-world feedback. Collaboration is key: Diverse position are leveraged to foster creativity and uncover novel approaches to complex challenges. Tangible Results: From healthcare to tech, retail, and services, Design Thinking is an essential tool for navigating uncertainty and driving innovation in 2025 and beyond.
- 38. Thank you all and have a nice day!