It is important for an effective leader to be a visionary and possess a form of x-ray vision. This can be very challenging in the work environment that exists in today’s world, so a leader must seek out others to provide suggestions and ideas to them. It seems though that there are two types of leaders right now – one who is a big picture type and the other who is very hands on. The best leader will be both tactical and strategic and know when the seesaw should sway one way or the other. A leader should have the expertise to see beyond the current issue and devise strategies that take in to account the future.
So how does a leader accomplish this successfully and to the best of their abilities? Design thinking is one method that has proven to be highly effective. Design thinking “is a methodology used by designers to solve complex problems and find desirable solutions for clients. A design mindset is not problem-focused, it is solution focused and action-oriented towards creating a preferred future.” Although this methodology appears to be more product-focused, it can also be successfully utilized in companies that are service-oriented.
IDEO, an award-winning global design firm, is a leader in taking a human-centered, design-based approach to helping organizations in the public and private sectors to become more innovative and grow. By using design thinking, a company can make more effective decisions based on what future customers really want. The company does not need to rely only on historical data or making risky bets based on instinct instead of real evidence.
Design thinking is not a quick fix method but one that uses a four-phase approach. The four phases involved with making this approach successful include: gathering inspiration, generating ideas, making ideas tangible, and sharing the story. It is a process that makes adjustments along the way instead of going with a particular solution before a real breakthrough takes place. This method can be applied to any business challenge and has already been proven successful many times.
What do you feel that your business has been struggling with lately? Do you typically rely on past methods to solve current challenges without success? Are you willing to try something new even if it takes a bit more time?
Other “X” words to ponder – we would like to hear from you with your thoughts.
