Entrepreneurship and Design Thinking

This assignment delves into the crucial relationship between entrepreneurship and design thinking. It examines how applying design thinking principles can lead to innovative solutions for launching and growing new ventures. The text explores various aspects of both fields, including creative problem-solving, user-centered design, and the development of successful business models. Resources like academic articles, books, and TED talks are used to provide a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic field.

MGMT20140
Term 2 2017
Assessment 3 – Individual Blog and Learning Reflections
Report

Executive Summary
My design thinking course was a journey towards professional and personal development.
Through the use of blogs as a modern information tool, I was able to record a journal of what
I learnt and the group activties that I took part in. A reflection of this journey reveals
tremendous personal changes such as improved creativity and organizational skills. Having a
clear record helped me to synchronize the data towards an effective plan of action scheduled
for six months. I have also come out as a stronger team player because of the group work
activities. I realize that the creativity world needs partnerships to survive because ideas
cannot survive without critics and stakeholders. In this report, I highlight some of the critical
Design Thinking techniques that have helped me to mature. Putting theory into practice calls
for a concerted effot and it directs the development of an idea into practical solutiins for the
global world.

Table of Contents
Introduction...........................................................................................................................................3
Personal Development...........................................................................................................................4
Entrepreneurship................................................................................................................................4
Inventing............................................................................................................................................5
Professional Development.....................................................................................................................5
Theoretical skills...............................................................................................................................6
Design Thinking as a Business Strategy............................................................................................6
Brainstorming....................................................................................................................................7
Action Plan............................................................................................................................................7
Month 1 (Visualization).....................................................................................................................7
Month 2 (Mapping technique)...........................................................................................................8
Month 3 (Cooperation in Design Thinking).......................................................................................8
Month 4 (Launching).......................................................................................................................10
Month 5 (Marketing).......................................................................................................................10
Conclusion...........................................................................................................................................11
References...........................................................................................................................................13

Introduction
Liedtka & Ogilvie (2011) enlightened my perception of design thinking in many ways. DT
knowledge on practical application of creative thinking gave me insight into how creativity is
shaping real world. I was able to connect with my course theory and group work to come up
with the conclusion that creative design thinking requires personal capabilities, learning and
exposure. In my opinion, individuals who have the creative talent can not succede if they
keep ideas to themelves and if they are not exposed to a stimulating environment. In order to
develop mindset techniques in design thinking, I had to go through a rigorous learning
process involving personal study, research, group work, workshops and creative thoughts.
This report is a summary of the process featuring innovation, entrepreneurship and design
thinking. It looks at critical elements in design thinking such as the tools, techniques and how
to turn ideas to business. A closer look at the viable business in the globe today reveals the
presence of design thinking ideas and the development of a business model from such ideas.
Using my blog (Shresta, 2017) as a point of reference, I highlight how learing design thinking
connects with real life situations.
Personal Development
Naturally, I am a creative mind who looks at thing from different points of view. In the
contemporary business world, success is dependent on creativity because successful business
ideas create a competitive edge (Barringer & Ireland, 2016). The learning process has helped
me to view entrepreneurs in the technology world with amazement because of how they
continue to disrupt life with new ideas. When I look at people using smart phones, laptops
and iPad, I cannot help but appreciate the power of great minds like Steve Jobs. My first
lecture in the course steered my thinking into a more imaginative approach and now I am able
to implement ideas with creativity (see blog #6 19 September 2017). Like those who
developed the internet, I can now imagine and design ideas to benefits the whole world. I do
not just want my ideas to feature among the wealthiest but I want to be like Bill Gates who
designs with value. Contribution through ideas like Microsoft continues to benefit businesses,
institutions and individuals. I have learnt how to turn ideas into valuebased business.

Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship in the world today continues to thrive because of technological innovations
(see blog #4 August 2 2017). My academic journey has opened my eyes to the difference
between an entrepreneurial and high growth venture. I now know that small businesses run
the global markets because of ideas. This is because of the difference between innovation and
invention, which lies in the ability to embrace risks and exploit more ideas for improvements
(Barringer & Ireland, 2016). This seems easy but I have realized that starting a business
requires some insight from the social environment. I appreciate the Australian government
for its effort in showing young people on how to start, register and run a business (Australian
Government, 2017). I can step out with one idea and divert into numerous ones. I will use my
skills in design to select a platform for innovation using my core competencies. I may also
venture into disruptive innovation because I am a creative person who likes unique
approaches to thinking designs (see blog #2 29th September 2017).
Inventing
I used to think that innovation is the same as inventing. I now know that product, process and
Innovation characterises the production of goods and services. This is the improvement of
products and services through research in order to meet the customer needs (Jimenez-
Jiminez, D, & Sanz-Valle, 2011). Although the research process is systematic and analytical,
design thinking is about improving on ideas. The innovation process has benefits, which
include enhanced competitiveness, increased profitability and efficiency (see blog #3 July 21
2017). I can team up with others for a creative mind that determines the trend in innovation
because an innovator:
 Reflects
 Solves problems
 Takes risks and never gives up
 Observes and experiments
 Networks
 Takes action

Professional Development
In the course, I have gained new skills for managing innovation for application in real life. I
have noticed the high competition in the business world today. Sparked by innovation,
creativity is an element of innovation visible in marketing adverts, business functions,
operations, products and services. I agree with Benedetto (2015) who describes the diffusion
of innovation based on relative advantages such as convenience, luxury and cost. I will use
my competence for making compatible attributes like values, opinions, segments and skills.
This is critical in communication processes. I plan to start with trial basis and the ability to
experiment, sample or test before purchasing (See blog # 1 30 September 2017). Through
observability, I can now make use of the right skills.
Theoretical skills
I am now aware of different theories that explain design thinking. In my opinion, action
research is more effective because its focus is on creating solutions for human and computer
usability (Rogers, Sharp, & Preece, 2011). In the group activity, we set out to release a launch
plan after a trial on the product. We relied on feedback from users in order to improve on the
product (See blog # 1 30 September 2017).
I also had a chance to explore the divergent and convergent thinking approach, which
provides a number of techniques for applied thinking (Levenson, 2011). These are important
in generating ideas. Divergent thinking creates a good number of solutions when solving
problems (see blog # 4 August 2, 2017) while convergent thinking narrows down to using
one central idea to solve problems (see blog # 6, 19 September 2017).
Other DT theories that I appreciate are logic of reasoning, creative learning and co-creation
or co-design. I find these approaches engaging to an individual and they encourage group
creativity. I realize that I am able to use a storyboard to design an idea with an entrepreneurial
focus. This process was informative about the importance of including the customer’s
perception in design thinking. This complicates the process and it calls for the use of multiple
theories across different levels.

Design Thinking as a Business Strategy
I have also come to learn that design thinking as a strategy improves performance because it
leads to useful innovations (Steinert & Leifer, 2013: Glen, Suciu, Baughn, & Anson, 2015. Its
approach targets the creation of solutions for application in real life. A successful business
has innovativeness focused on creating customer benefits (see blog # 4 July 2017).
Figure 1: Illustration on being creative in every day thinking: (Vital, 2017)
Brainstorming
From my life experience, a problem is a mindboggling experience. Design thinking tools
have unraveled this mystery by showing me techniques for solving problems. The first step
towards discovering a brilliant idea is to visualize (see blog #5 5 August 2017). As a group
we took up an activity to create an idea that all of us could relate with. We also attempted to
use the observation of photos in order to devise a solution. Brainstorming became a critical
tool because I was able to start at a small point of a small circle, overcome barriers and come
up with an intelligent solution. I now know that creativity and ideation are inseparable when
using brainstorming to solve problems (Amabile & Julianna, 2012). From this group activity
I developed the principles of DT, which I plan to use in my action plan skills such as Problem
solving, Human centered focus, observation, visualization, prototyping, experimentation and
active learning

Action Plan
As I plan to release my unique design to the world, I Look forward to using the knowledge
learnt and the skills adopted to create this change. My plan is to design a technology business
solution for today through personal and professional skills developed.
Month 1 (Visualization)
I agree that lack of thinking techniques kills creativity and that people who procrastinate
never innovate. Grant ( 2016) gives a moving talk at a TED conference on how people need
to embrace failure as part of the ideation process. This talk encouraged me to keep
experimenting until I get it right because brainstorming needs the right attitude, stimulus and
inspiration. This is what I plan to use at the preliminary stage. It supports reflection as the
process of solving problems but I have also learnt that there is a big difference between
observing and starring. Staring at people appears to be rude but I wish people would realize
that the surrounding is a source of inspiration for many designers.
Month 2 (Mapping technique)
During the discussion on mapping and education, we spent time coming up with numerous
ideas (see blog #6 August 2017). My plan is to engage the mind, emotions and feelings in
order to come up with brilliant ideas. Personally, I prefer to set the mood by using colorful
drawings. Mind mapping is fruitful when it targets value addition. The used of market
research helps me to identify gaps, which need innovation. Research and Development
spearheads this process (Benedetto, 2015). My dream is to work in a technology design
company but I realize that for me to succeed in such a highly creative industry, I need to
study its value network keenly. This involves the suppliers, customers and other value chains.
Designing solutions for the complete value chain is one way to use my creativity. Below are
illustration for creative thinking and mind mapping.

Figure 2: Mindmapping example of solving global warming issues using pictures (Gold,
2017)
Month 3 (Cooperation in Design Thinking)
One of the greatest lessons that I have learnt is that design thinking is not a one man’s game
(Sekeran & Bougie, 2013). When I look at global innovations, I notice that smartphone
innovators do not work alone. Mobile technology is a collaboration between software
developers, internet providers and hardware manufacturers. Reputable brands such as
Samsung, Huawei and Apple Inc. hire professional designers to work in these partnerships.
Similarly, this plan will encourage the exchange of ideas. From the group work, I learnt that
each student has the ability to think outside the box and the advantages of dot voting is one
way to classify and utilize these ideas carefully (see blog #7 19 September 2017).
Teamwork is essential because it helps designers to generate alternative solutions. The
process of collecting data is critical and the contribution of group members is necessary. This
was evident in the group discussions we had and each member had a role to play. Some were
good in research while others could gather data from mind tools fastest (see blogs #7& 8, 19
September and 12 September 2017).

Figure 3: A collection of ideas from group thinking
I find my inspiration from ethical design thinking such as the example in figure 2, which
highlights sustainability and environmental protection. Ethics is important in my plan because
innovation and sustainability complement each other. In my personal research, I discovered
that the modern consumer connects environmental friendly products to value. Therefore, in
my career, I purpose to focus on breaking down the deign process using a value based
approach of what is sustainable (Liedtka & Ogilvie, 2011). Barringer & Ireland (2016, p,
489) helps me to understand the process of new product development. This is informative
because it identifies a number of product type strategies and growth opportunities in the
external markets. This idea is important because the global market provides opportunities and
challenges which calls for rapid prototyping to save time and money (see blog # 9 12
September 2017).
Month 4 (Launching)
One of my favorite lessons in the course was on concept development (see blog #10, 12
September 2017). Product development involves a multilevel team working in the design
thinking process. I will use rapid prototyping of designs in the plan because the launch
provides an opportunity for me to present the finished design to the customers. Having
witnessed product launches in the real market, I look forward to having my own designs
launched. This takes teamwork and experimenting through the markets. The best part of a
design is the feedback from the customers. This stage is critical because it influences the
continuous innovation process (Dieter & Schmidt, 2013).

The course has taught me that gathering data at the launching stage is crucial because it
determines the refining process. An idea goes through rigorous vetting before it becomes an
acceptable reality. Friends and supporters can act as good critics of the innovation. A proper
analysis of the pros and cons will determine whether to abolish the innovation or to proceed
with it. This may also suggest the delay of a product in order to give way to improvements.
When presenting a launch, the timing and target participants are critical. Launching is part of
marketing and it paves the way for a strategic advertising plan (see blog # 11 30 September
2017 and blog #7 19 September)
Month 5 (Marketing)
In my journey of learning, I cannot dispute that there is a connection between marketing and
creative thinking. However, my idea of this is that target marketing needs to consider what
the competitor is doing in order to counter the idea (Liedtka & Ogilvie, 2011:Williams &
Page, 2011). I will use a competitor analysis a crucial marketing strategy. Consequently,
Design as communication needs to blend the organizations visions with the consumer needs.
The entrepreneurial marketing plan also benefits from design thinking techniques. In order to
prepare a successful marketing campaign, the brand needs a plan (see blog #6 5 August
2017).
My idea of target marketing includes the use of adverts with cultural values acceptable to the
consumer. This is because the contemporary global market comprise of cultural diversities
and the global consumer is selective on foreign ideas. If given a chance to lead a team of
innovators, I would advise on having insight into the direct, indirect and future competitors
because for a deeper analysis. Below is an example of a competitive analysis greed for a local
target.

:
Figure 4: Competitor analysis showing social consciousness advantages
Conclusion
As I reflect on what I have learnt over the years, I look forward to the next 6 months. This is
a great opportunity for me to expand on the knowledge, and skills for improved competencies
in design thinking. I look forward to putting the theoretical approaches to practice. I am
interested in identifying the best focus in entrepreneurial marketing because of my passion.
My intention is to use my creative mind to innovate and become a leader in the creative
design industry. I have role models that I would like to follow but I also need to have my own
ideas. For this, I need to polish on design as communication so that I can sell my ideas to
supporters, partners, teams and manufacturers.
I also plan to polish on how to prepare visual elements in the right context. Most design
thinkers are stuck because of resources. I need a clear plan on how to garner funding and
support for DT entrepreneurs. This is the best way for me to enforce what I have learnt in
applied thinking. I will share ideas of what I have with my group, friends and families. I also
know that time is a challenge so whether I end up working for a global organization or I
venture into business; I will make use of my time for success. In my opinion, the reason why
I have gone through the DT learning process is to prepare me to be a solution to the consumer
needs in the market system. Therefore I will take calculated steps on campus and outside for
creative developments using modern computer technology.

References

Amabile, T. M., & Julianna, P. (2012). Perspectives on the social psychology of creativity.
The Journal of Creative Behavior , 3-15.
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https://www.business.gov.au/Info/Plan-and-Start
Barringer, B. R., & Ireland, R. D. (2016). Entrepreneurship: Successfully Launching New
Ventures . Harlow, UK: Pearson.
Benedetto, C. A. (2015). Diffusion of Innovation (Vol. 13). Wiley Encyclopedia of
Management.
Dieter, G. E., & Schmidt, L. C. (2013). Engineering design. McGraw Hill.
Glen, R., Suciu, C., Baughn, C. C., & Anson, R. (2015). Teaching design thnking in business
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Gold, J. (2017, December 28). Visually. Retrieved Oct 2, 2017, from visual.ly:
https://visual.ly/community/infographic/environment/solving-global-warming-doing-
something
Grant, A. (2016, February). The surprising habits of original thinkers. Retrieved from TED:
https://www.ted.com/talks/adam_grant_the_surprising_habits_of_original_thinkers
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Shresta, C. (2017, September 30). Design It. Retrieved from Chandrashthakumar:
http://chandrasthakumar.blogspot.co.ke/
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