Design Thinking Practitioner
About this good practice
The Design Thinking Practitioner (DTP) is a structured training and certification programme that promotes Design Thinking as a solution-oriented methodology for innovation. Organised by the Hellenic Design Centre (HDC) – powered by the Business and Cultural Development Centre (KEPA) that was founded by the Federation of Industries of Northern Greece (FING) and the Green International Business Association (SEVE) - , the DTP aims to equip professionals with the tools and mindset to address complex challenges– including those related to circular economy transitions- through user-centered problem-solving.
It is addressed to business executives, business consultants, professionals in related fields, professionals who either have experience in the field of Design Driven Innovation, or want to discover new practices, tools and globally recognized methodologies. The purpose of the programme is to train participants in the use of the Design Thinking methodology, which places the needs of the user at the center of the whole process of developing a service, a product or a process.
HDC/KEPA took the initiative to develop a training programme to raise awareness on Design Thinking and to introduce interested parties to its methodology and tools through an interactive learning process.
The funding of this initiative came from KEPA’s own sources.
Resources needed
The "Design Thinking Practitioner" program requires skilled trainers and facilitators in Design Thinking, funding for course materials, trainer fees,digital tools,manuals, workbooks,venue rental, and catering. The program costs €390/attendee, with TÜV HELLAS certification validation at €140/person.
Evidence of success
Up to now, three (3) cycles of the “Design Thinking Practitioner” training programme have been conducted. 37 participants have successfully completed the programme and 25 have acquired the certification. Companies and organizations report enhanced problem-solving capabilities and innovation-driven solutions after applying the Design Thinking methodologies learned in the program.
Potential for learning or transfer
The “Design Thinking Practitioner” program offers strong learning and transfer potential. First, it is applicable across various industries, including business, healthcare, and education, and is valuable for graduates, product designers, and marketing specialists. The TÜV HELLAS (TÜV NORD) certification enhances credibility, enabling professionals to transfer knowledge within their organizations. The program’s main goal is for participants to gain practical skills in all four phases of the methodology. Additionally, it offers the opportunity to apply these skills to real-world challenges through hands-on practice.
The policy makers could integrate the DT methodology into their decision-making and policy development processes by actively engaging the final users, whereas the method can be applied to public organisations (training civil servants) and initiatives (participatory design with citizens and stakeholders) as well.
Further information
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