Page 138 - The Design Thinking Playbook

3) How do I find the right creative space for my organization?

Although you should set no limits to creativity, you should keep the industry, the type of enterprise, and
the prevailing corporate culture in mind. The space can be enriched in a playful way with unusual and
crazy things like rubber boats, hammocks, or shower curtains used as separation. Such objects can have
an inspiring or consciously disruptive effect. This “disruptive” function of a creative space that dissolves or
destroys what exists is quite conceivable in order to put things in motion. It’s up to us and our sensitivity
with respect to the other teams, our sponsor, or the decision makers to choose the right setting. Our tip:
Begin with a low profile and observe the reactions of the environment carefully before you go too far with
your creativity.

We can’t tackle the challenge without some courage. It’s not easy to change a work environment suc-
cessfully. As with any innovation, you’ll likely encounter resistance. Sometimes, such resistance points
at real weaknesses in a concept; sometimes, people are simply suspicious. Any resistance must be taken
seriously and accounted for in the implementation process.

A creative space can be designed jointly as part of a team development process. After all, the participants
must feel comfortable and identify with their space. By the way, this is why employees often don’t feel
comfortable in stylish rooms: because their wishes and needs have not been taken into consideration
sufficiently or at all.
Simple “goodies,” such as active loudspeakers for a little music, might also be well received, because
music can support the creative flow (e.g., soft music playing in the background during design sessions). The
caddy can hold a coffee machine and an electric kettle for tea. Bottles of water, cups, and brain food such
as nuts and dried fruits should be available in the room.

As an alternative to a small screen and a projector, teams can work with slightly larger screens if the
available space allows it. Again, a version with rollers is recommended, so it can be pushed aside when
not needed.

137