Our latest workshop was based on design thinking and how to use this tool to adapt to the new normal in 2022.
What is Design thinking?
Design Thinking is an iterative process in which we seek to understand the user, challenge assumptions, and redefine problems in an attempt to identify alternative strategies and solutions that might not be instantly apparent with our initial level of understanding. At the same time, Design Thinking provides a solution-based approach to solving problems. It is a way of thinking and working as well as a collection of hands-on methods.
Design thinking is an approach used for practical and creative problem-solving. It is based heavily on the methods and processes that designers use (hence the name), but it has actually evolved from a range of different fields — including architecture, engineering and business. Design thinking can also be applied to any field; it doesn’t necessarily have to be design-specific.
That is why we looked at the new normal of 2022.
What was the Process?
We discussed the 5 stages of the process: Empathise with the user, Define the problem, Ideate or brainstorm on how to solve the problem, prototype the solution and then test it with the users.
What was the Problem?
Dijena asked us about what was wrong in 2021 and what would we have changed? The common theme was not having enough time for ourselves and over committing to people.
Our problem statement became:
Emily needs more time in order to recharge and look after herself.
Group 2 Design Thinking Workshop Jan 2022
Ideation Time!
So this was the brainstorming session and we all added ideas on how we could help Emily with her problem.
Normally – this is using post it notes on the wall. We did it virtually with the tool Mural.
Then into Prototypes
So you have ideas… how do you change them into a prototype for Emily?
We looked at helping Emily to learn to say no.
We wanted her to
- Have daily commitments scheduled so she finds it easier to say no to people
- Write a list of what she wants for 2022. This should make it easier to only say yes to things that she wants to do
- Tell her friends, family and work colleagues what is important to her and set her boundaries. Then they will stop asking too much of her.
Test
By testing this prototype, we get immediate feedback from the group and learn more for the next round for design thinking. We learned that the group liked the ideas but wanted to ask more questions about part of the prototype.
Thank you
Dijena lead us through the 2 hour workshop with skill and kept us all involved. We loved having her share her ideas and the process with us.
We hope that our attendees will use the Design Thinking tool again.
