PGXPM Design Thinking

Design Thinking Challenge Project

Step 1: Identify an Opportunity

Write down an area of opportunity you think you might like to explore:

You are ready to evaluate whether design thinking is a fit for solving your DT Challenge. Design thinking is an approach to solving problems especially suited to conditions
of high uncertainty. DT comprises a set of methods that manage risk by placing small bets fast. This approach is not suitable for every challenge. In many cases, linear
analytic methods may be appropriate. For operational challenges where the required change is more incremental and where you have good historical data that allows you
to predict the future, you would find that traditional analytic methods to be more resource efficient.

Ask yourself the following SIX questions in the checklist table. These are helpful in identifying an opportunity that is suited to the unique methods of design thinking.
 Checklist to Evaluate Your Identified Opportunity

Question Design Thinking is appropriate if … Linear Analytic Methods may be better if…
Is the problem human-centered? Deep understanding of the actual people (users) There are few human beings involved in the problem
involved is both possible and important or the solution

How clearly do you understand the problem We have a hunch about the problem and/or We understand the problem clearly and are sure we’re
itself? opportunity, but we need to explore and get solving the right one
agreement

What’s the level of uncertainty? There are many unknowns (large and small), and past The past is a good predictor of the future
data is unlikely to help us

What’s the degree of complexity? There are many connecting and interdependent facets The path to solving the problem is clear, and analytic
of the problem; it’s hard to know where to start methods have succeeded in solving similar problems in
the past

What data is already available to you? There is very little relevant existing data to analyze There are several clear source of analogous data

What’s your level of curiosity and influence? I’m excited to explore more and can get a group of The problem feels routine to me, and I have to follow
people willing to help me existing processes and systems