Design Thinking
Today, many people use the term “design thinking” to describe the interconnected set of values, ideas, and activities that can be applied to framing the understanding of a given situation and inventing new possibilities for the future. Jeanne Liedka, Executive Director of the Batten Institute, University of Virginia Darden School of Business states, “The most fundamental difference between [design and science] is that design thinking deals primarily with what does not yet exist; while scientists deal with explaining what is. That scientists discover the laws that govern today’s reality, while designers invent a different future is a common theme. Thus, while both methods of thinking are hypothesis-driven, the design hypothesis differs from the scientific hypothesis.”
Design Leadership
Developing creative solutions to complex or undefined challenges requires a collaborative team approach. When designers contribute design thinking to the team, they facilitate a process that widens the range of possibilities by seeking as many ideas as possible and brings together ideas from a variety of perspectives to produce the best of all possible solutions. Harold Nelson, President of Advanced Design Institute states, “Design is a process of creative thinking and innovative action. Leadership based on systems thinking and design action is thus about how people are caused to stand together through an intentional process of creativity and innovation.”
We think that anyone who cares about design should care about design thinking and design leadership. Never before has the value of design been so high. Never before has the professional status of designers been so low. By focusing on design thinking and leadership, designers can demonstrate relevance for the 21st century and the special challenges that face our society. In the article, “Time For Change,” Clement Mok stated, “There has clearly been a steady decline in the design profession for over 30 years, and the source of that decline is the professionals in a changing professional climate: clutching at old idols while failing to create new offerings, failing to reinvent and reinvigorate the practice when needed, failing to inculcate a professional culture that is accessible and fair.”
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