An Introduction to Design Thinking and an Application to the Challenges of Frail, Older Adults

Abstract

Design thinking is a valuable, iterative process to utilize when building an innovation. Rather than starting from a singular novel technology in search of a problem, the design thinking approach begins with assessing the environment, users, and stakeholders, attempting to identify alternative strategies and solutions. This process generally leads to a more holistic and sustainable intervention, improving outcomes and adoption. This chapter provides a primer to design thinking, as well an introductory toolkit to begin applying the approach to your innovations.