DfE5: Design Thinking

Design thinking isn’t one process. Over the years, different practitioners and organizations have developed different ways of visualizing how we understand problems, generate ideas, make decisions, and create better outcomes.

Here are six design thinking models worth knowing:

1. Classic Design Thinking

Empathize → Define → Ideate → Prototype → Test

A human-centered process that moves between understanding the problem and testing possible solutions. It’s intentionally iterative, and not strictly linear. This was proposed the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford and continues to be a standard in design practice.

2. Double Diamond

Discover → Define → Develop → Deliver

Developed by the Design Council, the geometry of the double diamond method visualizes the movement between divergent and convergent thinking: first finding the right problem, then developing the right solution.

3. Danish Design Ladder

Non-design → Styling → Process → Strategy

Rather than describing a workflow, the Design Ladder shows how an organization can progressively use design: from aesthetics, to integrated processes, to a strategic capability. It can be further extended to include → System → Culture

4. Human-Centered Design

Inspiration → Ideation → Implementation

Developed by IDEO, this approach starts with understanding people's needs, turns insights into possible solutions, and then brings those ideas into the real world through prototyping, testing, iteration and implementation.

5. Design Loop

Observe → Reflect → Make → repeat

Instead of treating design as a sequence with a defined endpoint, this model by IBM emphasizes continuous learning: observing what is happening through research, reflecting on it to align goals, making something to catalyze change, and learning from the result.

6. D.F.V. Venn Diagram

Desirable × Feasible × Viable.

Good design sits at the intersection of what people want, what can realistically be built, and what can work as a sustainable business. It shows the strategic constraints surrounding design to balance human needs, technological possibilities and organizational realities.

There isn't one 'correct' design thinking process. The right model depends on the problem, the organization, and how much uncertainty you're dealing with. Sometimes you would apply multiple design thinking frameworks to address a problem.

🌍 Let's use strategic design to make a positive impact!