Ep 1.2: Understanding design thinking and the double diamond

Check out the episode guide.In this episode, I break down design thinking and the Double Diamond, a powerful framework for tackling complex problems. Learn the four stages, practical tools, and how to start applying them in any role.Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ | ⁠Amazon Music⁠ | ⁠Castbox⁠ | ⁠Goodpods⁠ | ⁠iHeart⁠ | ⁠Pocket Casts⁠Resources mentionedNatasha Jen — “Design Thinking is BS” talkIDEO Design KitTimestamps0:02 – IntroductionWelcome to Idea Work and overview of the show’s purpose — exploring what innovation professionals and designers do, and how they create change.1:26 – Why design thinking?Clarifying the method’s purpose, where it applies, and how it differs from solving simple, well-defined problems.4:00 – Critiques and philosophyAcknowledging criticisms of design thinking and viewing it as both a flexible process and a mindset.5:56 – The Double Diamond frameworkOrigin, four stages (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver), and the importance of iteration rather than a rigid sequence.8:01 – Discover and DefineResearch methods, affinity mapping, personas, and reframing challenges into “how might we” questions.11:07 – Develop and DeliverBrainstorming and brainwriting, evaluating ideas for viability, feasibility, and desirability, prototyping, and iterative testing.15:49 – Real-world exampleHypothetical university case study showing the process from research to funded, ongoing programme.16:59 – Iterating and applyingWhen and why to return to earlier stages, and tips for trying parts of the process in everyday work.17:49 – 18:08 - Wrap up and sign offMichael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠academic⁠, ⁠founder⁠, improviser, and ⁠musician⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.