Innovation Processes

“Design Thinking” is a human-centered approach to solving complex problems that are often only vaguely outlined, and to developing new ideas. It is based on the assumption that diverse teams produce more creative solutions. The needs and wants of (potential) users are often strongly integrated into developing and testing new products and services.

Norms can (unintentionally) lead to disadvantages for certain groups and, in the case of safety devices or medical products, even endanger their health. Therefore, modern “user-centered” approaches consciously try to consider the diverse aspects of their (potential) applications in the development process. . A diversity-conscious approach to personas can help to reflect the diversity of different user groups more adequately.

Also larger and established organizations increasingly strive for agile forms of working, like they are often given in startups and small companies from the very beginning. In this way, organizations can use "swarm intelligence" of smaller units to deal with uncertainties and changing requirements in a more coordinated way. For the innovation sector, agile forms of working offer opportunities for open and inclusive collaboration if they include diversity aspects in its use.

When it comes to involving different groups of people in development processes, the idea of getting suggestions directly from (potential) users is obvious. In addition to existing user groups, new users can also be addressed through targeted communication. Those involved in open innovation processes are intrinsically motivated to participate in developing products and services and making their data available intentionally and voluntarily.

Innovation in highly developed and specialized areas of application requires a high degree of cooperation, multidisciplinarity, and creativity. In addition to the diversity of content, multidisciplinary approach also entails methodological diversity. Thus, the humanities and social sciences can provide valuable impulses for a holistic approach in the innovation process and help in reflecting critically on familiar structures and thought patterns.