Vital Role of Design Thinking Coaches
- Jentz Tan
- Jun 26, 2024
- 2 min read
💌 Shoutout to all the Design Thinking Coaches out there!
Have you ever been in a meeting where someone :
⏳ shows up late,
💬 Always interrupts or
😴 seems disengaged
These small behaviors can disrupt team dynamics, especially in high-stakes, ambiguous projects like innovation initiatives.
🌋 Imagine navigating a constantly pivoting innovation project where clarity is fleeting, and creativity is vital. Minor disruptions can quickly escalate into significant team dynamics issues in such environments.
💡 That’s where a Design Thinking (DT) coach becomes invaluable.
🇹🇷 Here in Istanbul, for the second module of the Hasso Plattner Institute's DT Coach Certification, we’re grooming 13 aspiring DT coaches to lead innovation projects in their organizations one day.
Vital Role of Design Thinking Coaches
As part of their preparation, we don’t just teach theory; we immerse them in real-world challenges. They’re facilitating teams of five strangers through complete DT projects, closely observed by experienced coaches.
These coaches-in-training must prepare and guide their teams from start to finish over several days—a comprehensive experience, not just a teaser.
🙌 DT coaches excel at managing these complexities. They guide teams through ambiguity, ensuring everyone stays aligned and focused on innovation goals. They preempt conflicts, foster collaboration, and keep teams motivated amidst uncertainty.
🤲 Innovation projects demand more than process facilitation; they require someone who can navigate the nuances of human interaction, clarify roles, and align efforts with strategic goals.
DT coaches play this critical role, driving impactful and sustainable innovation.
🧡 Speaking of DT coaches, please share with us how they have impacted your project and life.
[About the Author]
Jentz has a deep background in innovation and design across Europe and Malaysia. Committed to enhancing design practices, Jentz aims to help position Malaysia as a hub for creative and impactful solutions. Join him in exploring the potential of design thinking to tackle immediate challenges and inspire transformative change and innovation.
