The Empathetic Innovation Approach
The empathetic innovation process is an evolution of multiple design models created to be integrated into engineering practice. The key characteristics of the process are that problems are defined before solutions are proposed, that the process is iterative and collaborative and that it takes a systemic approach, putting people and increasingly the environment at its heart.
Below are the six stages of the design process. Each stage contains advice, techniques and tools on the different approaches needed to achieve your objectives. Just click on each circle to learn more.
This resource equips design engineers with the skills, insights and tools to combine technological innovation with human-centred design in order to deliver more effective and impactful solutions.
A Linear PROCESS THAT IS REALLY ITERATIVE
We recommend following the order suggested, particularly making sure that you have a deep understanding of the problem before working on the solution. However, if you have a solution without much understanding of the problem, it’s never too late to explore the 'understand' and 'focus' stages of the process.
Although the diagram above implies linearity, there is continuous flow backwards and forwards between the stages and we can also think of it as circular because as we iterate the design, or evolve the solution over time we will often revisit each of the stages again and again.
An Empathetic and Systemic Approach
Successful innovation demands not only the effective and often novel application of technology, but also deep insights into what will create real value for people and our planet. This demands a more empathetic and human approach to understanding customers’ and users’ compelling needs at a systemic level and devising solutions that address those needs. The tools and techniques provided at each stage of our process help you think in these different ways.
