How can Design Thinking contribute to innovation work in Swedish firms?

Purpose and goal

The main objective was to develop practically applicable knowledge of implementation of design thinking (DT) in Swedish companies. The project consisted of three work packages: a collaborative project at Ericsson, a study of DT in the Swedish company in which a conclusion is that Swedish companies are relatively immature and concept development of Innovation Playground where companies tried DT. A major focus has been put on the dissemination of knowledge from our international studies. In addition to scientific contributions, and cases we have held seminars and launched a podcast.

Expected results and effects

Three results were expected, all with relevance to practise: - Knowledge on design thinking, especially related to the management concepts and their implementation has been published in a PhD thesis and articles . - A framework for understanding and implementing design thinking , which can be used in practice has been published . - Development of case descriptions from studies in the United States and Germany are in progress. - We also gave seminars, a Chalmers course, a podcast and articles on our studies, and co-created a network for DT practitioners in the US (DTX).

Planned approach and implementation

The project was implemented through three work packages: the Ericsson project was collaborative and came to focus on capability building. The DT Playground focused on introducing companies to design thinking, transferring knowledge from past projects and give them the opportunity to try the approach . Great emphasis has also been placed on research, to contribute to the development of knowledge about management concepts, specifically DT where our research group has established itself as a leader . A large international network has also been built up through DTX and conferences.