Page 205 - The Design Thinking Playbook

In the initial phase (”Perspective”), the focus is on understanding the The last phase is focused on the Vision, which is indispensable for
past. This reflection helps us to comprehend what has happened up to the viability of an idea. Only with a clear vision will the various stake-
the present day. Once a team has understood the past, it is easier to holders support the idea, invest their lifeblood in it, and ultimately
understand possible options for the future. The question of why these contribute to scaling the idea.
options are rated high especially can yield the decisive insight when
they are implemented later. Often project teams immediately address The latter two phases help to enshrine strategic foresight throughout
the solution. For this reason, it is a vital component of the Foresight an organization. This process takes time because organizations do
Framework to go through this phase and recognize the added value not learn overnight. This is why every phase has used three tools
gained in the reflection on the past. that are very useful when processing the respective questions (see p.
201). Studies conducted at Stanford have proven that people find such
The next phase (”Opportunity”) deals with understanding the needs tools helpful for arranging and structuring their thoughts, especially
of potential customers. When we recognize unfulfilled customer when it comes to knowledge-intensive and complex issues. Strategic
needs, we have already come closer to customer groups, who are foresight is based on abstract ideas with a high level of uncertainty
most ready for changes, and we automatically address the question of in the early stages of development. The tools help in the analysis of
how these customers might benefit from an innovation. what is already known and what is not. The future can also be made
palpable and graspable this way.
The third phase (”Solution”) concentrates on the building of proto-
types as a potential solution to the problem statement. The value of New ways of working and tools for a successful transition are crucial
the solution option that was developed can be better assessed when in the age of digitization, which entails great uncertainty for business-
compared to other solution options and workarounds. es. The ability to anticipate with strategic foresight seems to be of
fundamental importance in the 21st century for managers and agile
In the fourth phase (”Team”), the issue is to develop routines for the teams alike.
talents that will help them find new ideas and develop them further.

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