Design thinking is a method of creative problem-solving. This method is designed to deliver innovative solutions by using a specific work method. The motto of this method is doing, not talking, so going over every detail of the project is changed into a multi stage division of tasks in order to extend and refine subsequent tasks.
The process of design thinking is divided into five steps:
- Empathy: All of the new solutions are created for people. Therefore, the needs of a given group of people should be known, and this is why empathy is the starting point of all projects created by design thinking. To find the optimal solution, we need to see how this solution will help the common user.
- Define the problem: In this stage, we need to define the exact problem to solve. We need to remember not to define problems in too narrow or too wide a range so that the solution will not be limited by rigid frames.
- Ideas: This stage consists of creating as many ideas as possible for solutions relating to the previously defined problem. In this step, a brainstorm is very useful. The important thing is not to stick to your own ideas, and not to judge others. These sessions should be ended by choosing a concrete solution, which will be picked from the previously selected ideas.
- Prototypes: Creating the prototypes is an indispensable step. Building prototypes should not be a very complicated process. The most important thing is to make a preliminary visualization of the idea, because only in that way can the idea be tested naturally. Every subsequent prototype should be created by thinking of the user and answering concrete questions.
- Tests: This step is extremely important. In this step, the product is tested in a real environment, so you can check that it functions correctly. Every prototype can be evaluated by the group (for example, the project group), and the best one will be chosen for further improvements. Testing should be repeated until a satisfactory result is obtained.