DESIGN THINKING

Contents
● Self Introduction
● About me
● Design thinking pillars

○ Empathy

■ Observation skill

○ Collaborate

■ MEDIC 2019 Case study

○ Inclusion

○ Repeat/iterate
● Activity
Dr.Sunilkumar S Honnungar
Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering,

SDM College of Engineering & Technology,

Dharwad
• B.E (Mech) 1993, Karnataka
University, Dharwad
• M.Tech (Machine Design), 2002, VTU
Belagavi
• PhD (Mechanical Engineering),
2016, Anna University, Chennai
• Level Two Certified Demonstrator,
VLCI, 2018-2019
• 20 years teaching, 6 years Industry,
3 years research experience
COPYRIGHT Dr.Sunilkumar S Honnungar 11/3/2024
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 Dr.Anand
Mr.Neelesh Deshpande Mr.C.S.Patel Mr.Saideep
Prof.Foruhashi San Rathnam
Chougule

VISIONARY LEARNING COMMUNITY OF INDIA (VLCI)

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5
SYLLABUS
Design Thinking

Four Pillars
Empathy
Observations
● Use one or more of the 5 senses to gather
information
● A noting and recording of…. FACTS!!!
A test of observation skills…
Take a good look at this picture
Question 1
Are there cars parked on the sides of the road?
Question 2
What color is the pickup truck driving in the road?
Question 3
Any minivans around?
Question 4
What does the blue sign say?
Question 5
What's the speed limit?
Question 6
Are there any pedestrians on the road?
Answers
1. Parked Cars
- Yes
2. Pick-up Color
- Blue
3. Minivans
- Yes
4. Sign
–“Yard Sale”
5. Speed Limit Sign
- 35 mph
6. Pedestrians
- No
Collaboration
21
 Dr.Rupes
h Ghyar

Dr.B.Ravi

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 AASHWAS

COPYRIGHT Dr.Sunilkumar S Honnungar

11/3/2024 24
Inclusion
Repeat/Iterate
Design Thinking

• Empathize with people's needs,

• Collaborate with others across disciplines, skill
sets, and perspectives,
• Include every idea in visible form for evaluation,
and
• Repeat, iterating and testing solutions to perfect
them, always with human needs at the center.
Design Thinking Quiz

Design Thinking or NOT Design Thinking

Design Thinking Process

Problem Space Solution Space

Design Design
Challenge Solution
Design Thinking

Problem Space Solution Space

Design Design
Challenge Solution
Design Thinking Branding

Design Thinkers Group Empathize | (Re)frame | Ideate | Prototype | Test

Stanford d.school Empathize | Define | Ideate | Prototype | Test
Ideo Gather | Generate | Make | Share
Ideo v2.0 Inspiration | Ideation | Implementation
Luma Institute Looking | Understanding | Making
IBM Observe | Reflect | Make
FSU Innovation Hub Empathize | Ideate | Build
Design Thinking Methods & Tools

Design Thinkers Group Empathize | (Re)frame | Ideate | Prototype | Test

Stanford d.school Empathize | Define | Ideate | Prototype | Test
Ideo Gather | Generate | Make | Share
Ideo v2.0 Inspiration | Ideation | Implementation
Luma Institute Looking | Understanding | Making
IBM Observe | Reflect | Make
FSU Innovation Hub Empathize | Ideate | Build
Design Thinking Steps in Perspective
Design Thinking Steps in Perspective
Problem Statement

• How to aviod usage of mobile phones during class session

by students?
• Problems caused due to BRTS Bus service between Hubli-
Dharwad
• Each one of you should identify one problem each of your
day today life (Which you feel its important and if given a
chance, you can fix the same)
References
• https://www.innovation.fsu.edu/
THEORY & PRACTICE OF DESIGN THINKING

Design Thinking is a human-centered approach to

innovation and problem-solving. Rooted in empathy, it
uses a set of principles and practices to deeply
understand user needs, ideate creative solutions,
prototype concepts, and iterate based on feedback.
It’s widely applied in various fields—from product
design to business strategy—because it merges
analytical thinking with creativity. Let’s break down
both the theory and practice of Design Thinking.
Theory of Design Thinking
The theoretical foundation of Design Thinking comes
from cognitive psychology, engineering, and creative
disciplines. Here are the key elements:
1. Human-Centered Focus
Design Thinking prioritizes the user's experience,
needs, and emotions. By putting users at the center,
it encourages a deep understanding of their desires
and pain points. This approach moves beyond pure
functionality, aiming for solutions that genuinely
resonate with people.
2. Empathy
Designers must step into users’ shoes to understand
their challenges and needs. Techniques like
ethnographic research, interviews, and observations
are used to gain insight into user behavior.
3. Collaboration and Multidisciplinary
Teams Diverse perspectives lead to more innovative
solutions. The theory suggests that bringing people
from different fields together fosters ideas that
wouldn't emerge in a single-discipline team.
4. Iterative Problem-Solving
Rather than seeking a single, “perfect” solution,
Design Thinking is iterative, viewing failure as a
steppingstone to improvement. Each prototype or test
reveals valuable insights that guide refinements.
5. Bias Toward Action
Design Thinking leans heavily on making and testing
ideas quickly, avoiding extended planning phases
that may not yield useful results. This “learning by
doing” philosophy shortens the gap between ideas
and tangible solutions.
Practical Approach to Design Thinking
Design Thinking in practice is usually broken down
into five phases:
1.Empathize
This phase involves deep user research to uncover
needs and desires. Techniques include user
interviews, observation, empathy mapping, and
journey mapping.
2.Define
Synthesize the findings from the empathy phase to
clearly articulate the problem. This is where
practitioners create a “problem statement,” which is
user-centered and defines the scope and direction of
the project.
3. Ideate
In this brainstorming phase, participants generate as
many ideas as possible. The goal is to think broadly
without judgment. Techniques like mind mapping,
brainstorming, and "How Might We" questions help
structure the ideation.
4. Prototype
Prototyping involves creating a tangible representation
of the idea. These don’t need to be polished; rough
prototypes such as sketches, wireframes, or simple
models are enough. The purpose is to visualize
solutions quickly and affordably.
5.Test.
In the testing phase, designers gather user feedback
on prototypes. This process often reveals new
insights, which can lead to refinements or even a
complete rethinking of the initial problem.
Examples of Design Thinking in Practice
1. Apple Product Development
Apple is known for applying Design Thinking principles in
creating intuitive products. By focusing on user needs and
simplicity, it’s been able to innovate consistently in technology.
2. Healthcare Innovations
In healthcare, design thinking has been used to redesign hospital
experiences, such as streamlining emergency room procedures
or creating apps that help patients manage their treatments.
3. Social Innovation
Organizations like IDEO.org use Design Thinking to tackle
complex social problems, such as poverty and education, by
developing solutions that are user-informed and culturally
sensitive.
Design Thinking Challenges and Criticisms
While powerful, Design Thinking has its critics. Some
argue that it can be difficult to scale and that its results
can be unpredictable. Others note that without careful
application, it risks producing superficial or trendy
solutions rather than addressing deeper issues.
Ultimately, the theory and practice of Design Thinking
emphasize the value of understanding real human
needs and iterating on solutions. It’s an adaptable
mindset as much as a methodology, aimed at fostering
empathy, collaboration, and creativity in solving
complex problems.
Design has evolved globally, shaped by cultural, technological,
social, and environmental influences. Here’s a look at some of
the major design ideas and movements across the globe, which
have each influenced both regional and international aesthetics
and design approaches.
1. Bauhaus (Germany)
•Timeframe: 1919–1933
•Key Ideas: Form follows function, minimalism, integration of art,
craft, and technology
•Description: Founded by Walter Gropius in Germany, Bauhaus
emphasized a minimalist, functional approach where every
element serves a purpose. Bauhaus promoted the idea that
design should be accessible and usable, influencing modern
architecture, furniture, and typography.
•Impact: Bauhaus inspired the International Style in
architecture, bringing about sleek, geometric forms
seen in urban centers worldwide. IKEA furniture is a
modern example that carries on Bauhaus principles.
2. Wabi-Sabi (Japan)
•Key Ideas: Imperfection, impermanence, simplicity
•Description: Rooted in Zen Buddhism, Wabi-Sabi
appreciates the beauty in natural flaws and
transience. This concept values simple, rustic, and
handmade objects, often with a focus on natural
materials and asymmetry.
•Impact: Wabi-Sabi has influenced interior and
product design, emphasizing the authenticity and
character of handmade or aged items. It has a strong
presence in minimalist and rustic aesthetics globally,
popularized further by Marie Kondo's minimalist
philosophy.
3. De Stijl (The Netherlands)
•Timeframe: 1917–1931
•Key Ideas: Abstraction, primary colors, geometric
forms
•Description: Founded by artists Piet Mondrian and
Theo van Doesburg, De Stijl aimed for “universal
harmony” through simple forms and primary colors.
This movement embraced abstraction, focusing on
clean lines and the primary colors red, blue, and
yellow.
•Impact: De Stijl heavily influenced modernist
architecture and graphic design, as well as the work of
architects like Gerrit Rietveld. Its principles are echoed
in contemporary furniture design and abstract art.
4. Art Deco (France and United States)
•Timeframe: 1920s–1930s
•Key Ideas: Opulence, luxury, symmetry, bold
geometric patterns
•Description: Emerging in post-World War I France,
Art Deco embraced elegance, luxury, and technology.
Characterized by bold geometric shapes, vibrant
colors, and lavish materials, it spread rapidly to the
U.S., where it defined much of New York City’s iconic
skyline.
•Impact: Art Deco influenced architecture, interior
design, jewelry, and fashion, inspiring a glamorous
and symmetrical aesthetic. It continues to be popular
in luxury interiors and vintage-inspired designs today.
5. Mid-Century Modern (United States and
Scandinavia)
•Timeframe: 1945–1969
•Key Ideas: Functionality, simplicity, organic forms,
and a blend of natural and man-made materials
•Description: This movement emphasized clean
lines, functional furniture, and open spaces,
combining traditional craftsmanship with modern
materials like plywood and fiberglass.
•Impact: Mid-century modern has left a lasting
legacy on interior design, influencing minimalist
trends in architecture and furniture design worldwide.
It’s especially evident in the widespread popularity of
Danish and Scandinavian aesthetics, such as the
iconic designs of Arne Jacobsen and Charles and
Ray Eames.
6. Afrofuturism (Africa and African Diaspora)
•Key Ideas: Blend of African culture, technology,
science fiction, and speculative design
•Description: Afrofuturism imagines futures that
center African culture, history, and aesthetics, often
within sci-fi narratives. It incorporates African
iconography with futuristic motifs, vibrant colors, and
alternative histories.
•Impact: Afrofuturism has influenced fashion, music,
visual arts, and film (notably Black Panther). It has
increased the representation of African culture in
design, highlighting futuristic African urban design,
technology, and literature.
7. Sustainable and Biophilic Design (Global)
•Key Ideas: Sustainability, integration of nature,
resource efficiency
•Description: This movement emerged as a response
to environmental issues, prioritizing eco-friendly
materials, energy efficiency, and designs that foster a
connection with nature. Biophilic design aims to create
spaces that mimic nature and promote well-being.
•Impact: Sustainable design has become a global
standard in architecture, product design, and
packaging. Biophilic design is popular in corporate
spaces, healthcare, and urban planning, seen in green
roofs, living walls, and the use of natural materials.
8. Contemporary Indian Design (India)
•Key Ideas: Fusion of traditional craftsmanship with
modernity, vibrant colors, and intricate details
•Description: Contemporary Indian design integrates
local craft traditions, textiles, and patterns with modern
sensibilities. It places high value on handmade details
and local artisanship, aiming to sustain traditional
crafts while adapting them to modern tastes.
•Impact: Indian designers are gaining international
recognition, bringing traditional Indian motifs, patterns,
and artisanal techniques to the global design stage.
Fashion brands like Sabyasachi and Good Earth are
examples, using heritage textiles and craftsmanship in
contemporary ways.
9. Postmodern Design (United States and Italy)
• Timeframe: 1970s–1990s
• Key Ideas: Playfulness, irony, bold colors,
eclecticism
• Description: Postmodern design rejected the
simplicity of modernism, favoring an experimental
and humorous approach. It included bold colors,
playful forms, and an eclectic mix of historical
references.
Impact: Postmodernism influenced architecture,
graphic design, and fashion, seen in the works of
architects like Michael Graves and Memphis Group
furniture. Its eclectic and vibrant style has been
revived in recent years as a counterpoint to
minimalism.
10. Minimalism (Japan, Scandinavia, and the
United States)
Key Ideas: Simplicity, essentialism, spatial efficiency
Description: Minimalism strives for simplicity and
focuses on the essentials, often using neutral colors,
open spaces, and natural light. It encourages “less is
more,” aiming for clean aesthetics and clutter-free
environments.
Impact: This design idea has influenced lifestyle
choices, interior design, fashion, and art globally. It’s
particularly strong in Scandinavian design and
Japanese Zen-inspired aesthetics, influencing
everything from architecture to digital interfaces.
Conclusion
These design ideas reflect the diversity of cultural,
historical, and ideological influences on global design
practices. Each movement brings a unique approach,
from the functional minimalism of Bauhaus to the
imaginative futurism of Afrofuturism, creating a rich
tapestry of global design evolution. They continue to
inspire contemporary designers who draw on these
foundations to adapt to new technologies and cultural
shifts.
In Design Thinking, a Minimum Viable Product
(MVP) is a simplified, early version of a product
developed to test assumptions, gather user feedback,
and validate ideas with minimal investment. An MVP
incorporates just enough features to solve the core
problem or offer the essential user experience,
allowing teams to learn quickly from real user
interactions and make data-driven decisions for further
iterations.
MVP in the Design Thinking Process
An MVP typically aligns with the Prototype and Test
phases of Design Thinking, where the focus is on
creating tangible representations of ideas and refining
them through user feedback.
Here’s how an MVP fits within the Design Thinking
framework:
1. Empathize
• Identify and understand users' pain points and
needs, which help define the critical features the
MVP should address
2. Define
• Use the insights from the empathy phase to define
a problem statement and determine the essential
functionality the MVP should include.
3. Ideate
• Brainstorm a range of possible solutions,
prioritizing those that address the primary problem
effectively with minimal resources.
4. Prototype (MVP Creation)
• Develop an MVP by focusing on the smallest set
of features that address the core need.
It could be a clickable wireframe, a landing page, or a
simple physical model, depending on the product
type.
5. Test
• Gather feedback from real users as they interact
with the MVP. Observe their reactions, note pain
points, and assess if the product’s core function
meets user needs.
Benefits of Using MVPs in Design Thinking
• Quick Validation of Assumptions: An MVP
allows teams to test their assumptions and
hypotheses with real users before significant
resources are invested.
• Cost-Efficiency: By developing only essential
features, teams minimize costs associated with
development and reduce the risk of investing in
features that may not resonate with users.
• User-Centered Iteration: User feedback collected
during MVP testing is invaluable, revealing
insights that drive improvements in the next
versions.
• Risk Reduction: MVPs help identify issues and
usability problems early, reducing the risk of
launching a final product that fails to meet user
expectations.
Examples of MVPs in Design Thinking
•Dropbox: Dropbox started with a simple video MVP
demonstrating how its file-syncing software would
work. This allowed them to gauge interest and gather
feedback before building the full product.
•Airbnb: Initially, the founders of Airbnb used an MVP
approach by renting out just one room in their
apartment. This test helped validate the idea of a peer-
to-peer home rental model and identify key features for
future development.
•Zappos: Before building an entire e-commerce
platform, Zappos founder Nick Swinmurn validated
the concept of selling shoes online by photographing
shoes in local stores and posting them online. This
MVP proved demand without the need for a full
inventory system.
In sum, MVPs in Design Thinking allow teams to
build a foundational product based on real user
needs and use these insights to guide the direction
of future development—maximizing user satisfaction
while minimizing risk and costs.