MBA 523 Design Thinking for Innovation

This class helps students gain insight into and apply the design thinking process to facilitate effective problem-solving and the emergence of innovative solutions. The structure of this class is consistent with that of a workshop and follows a hands-on, activity-based approach. Students learn the key phases and building blocks of the design thinking process and how these components interact with one another in a synergistic manner to promote innovation. This class includes a highly practical toolbox that equips students with a set of methods, tools, techniques, and templates that are utilized by leading organizations to ensure success within each phase of design thinking. Emphasis is placed on innovation, which is the primary purpose and dimension of design thinking. To master this concept, students learn about uncovering hidden patterns, cross-pollinating ideas, and engaging in low-risk trial-and-error processes to develop innovative solutions.

Credits

3

Outcomes

1. This course will prepare students to:
2. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of key factors that facilitate effective problem-solving and the emergence of innovative solutions.
3. Apply the design thinking process and toolbox to generate an innovative solution.
4. Create a lessons-learned document for a design thinking project to enhance relevant practical knowledge by identifying and capitalizing on strengths and eliminating errors and weaknesses.
5. Formulate and evolve a strong problem statement to determine a specific focus area for a design thinking team to guide the members’ interactions, activities, and efforts.
6. Assess the effectiveness of an alternative solution using prototyping, proper testing methods, and feedback mechanisms.