What is Design Thinking?
Curious about what Design Thinking is all about? Check out our free Design Thinking Fast Start course to get a headstart!
The Digital Experience Economy is upon us and companies are collecting data to create personalized experiences. Riding on this wave, companies are interested in the use of 2 broad categories of data – big data and small data. Design Thinking is the tool that companies are using to transform data into a business solution. For those who are interested in how big data can be used for Design Thinking, read our article on 3 ways to use web analytics for Design Thinking.
Design Thinking focuses on building solutions for the unmet needs of your users. It starts with developing empathy for your users through understanding their preferences, needs and concerns. With these insights, the problem is then re-framed to address the needs and concerns that have been identified. Finally, using a mix of ideation and experimentation enables the creation of solutions for your customers.
Course providers in this space
Finding a suitable Design Thinking course in Singapore is a challenge as there are many providers in this space. How do I know which providers are good? Through our experience, we have identified 3 recommendations for you. If none of these meet your needs, we also have a broader listing of courses from reputable institutions.
Our recommendations
For the executives
For executives looking for practical ways to apply Design Thinking, we recommend going for Innovating Through Design Thinking offered by SMU (Singapore Management University). The trainer, Jin Kang Moller has a wealth of experience using this approach to drive business success at OCBC bank. The multiple accolades she has won for designing FRANK and the One Wealth app is testament to her proficiency.
Most importantly, Jin is a master communicator who can explain these concepts to laymen and non-designers. Highly recommended if you can afford the 3 full days. Additionally, the course also has a part 2 where you can bring your business problem into the classroom and obtain guidance from Jin.
Price: Singaporeans and PR, SGD 770.40 Singaporeans above 40, SGD 290.40
For the busy ones
For those who have difficulty getting away from the office, consider taking up the Foundations in Design Thinking online certification program from IDEO U. Founded by David Kelley, the parent company of IDEO U used this approach to design for major innovations such as the computer mouse .
The certification program consists of 2 courses which last for around 2-3 months. The courses are delivered through a mix of top-notch videos and forum interactions within the IDEO U community. Case studies on how IDEO has applied these concepts to various industries are also included liberally throughout the videos.
Another great feature of the course is the interaction with the community you will learn alongside. Having the opportunity to interact and review the work of other students will open your mind to different possibilities.
Finally, the assessment for the courses come in the form of projects that you will spend 1-3 hours on each week. Not to worry though, the projects are such a joy that you will find yourself enjoying the process.
Price: SGD 1635.12 (USD 1198)
For those who want to find out more before a full course
We have curated some of the best resources available along with a few lessons to give you a head start. Give it a go, sign up for our Design Thinking Fast Start course.
Price: Free
For a broader listing of the courses available in Singapore, scroll down to find the full list of courses.
We wish you well on your Design Thinking journey, reach out to us at through our contact page if you need more advice on how to get started!