Methodology of Workshop-Based Innovative System Design Grounded in Systems Engineering and Design Thinking

Abstract

In the design of innovative service systems and products, workshop-based collective intelligence has become a widespread method. There are a number of “Future Centers” and design schools discussing effective methods of collaboration among various stakeholders. However, what emerges from these activities is often just dialogue that does not lead to creative ideas. In our graduate school, we have developed a unique methodology for workshop-based innovative design based on both systems engineering and design thinking. Systems engineering is a reliable way of designing systems, whereas design thinking promotes creativity. By combining both these ideas, which are usually assumed to be opposites, a systematic, reliable, and creative methodology is realized. In this chapter, first, the methodology is introduced. Then, examples of the methodology’s applications for education in universities and public Future Centers are shown. Finally, the method’s effectiveness is demonstrated by several examples, showing that it is useful for innovative service-system design.