Ep 1.2: Understanding design thinking and the double diamond

Check out the episode guide.

In this episode, I break down design thinking and the Double Diamond, a powerful framework for tackling complex problems. Learn the four stages, practical tools, and how to start applying them in any role.

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Resources mentioned

• Natasha Jen — “Design Thinking is BS” talk

• IDEO Design Kit

Timestamps

0:02 – Introduction
Welcome to Idea Work and overview of the show’s purpose — exploring what innovation professionals and designers do, and how they create change.

1:26 – Why design thinking?
Clarifying the method’s purpose, where it applies, and how it differs from solving simple, well-defined problems.

4:00 – Critiques and philosophy
Acknowledging criticisms of design thinking and viewing it as both a flexible process and a mindset.

5:56 – The Double Diamond framework
Origin, four stages (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver), and the importance of iteration rather than a rigid sequence.

8:01 – Discover and Define
Research methods, affinity mapping, personas, and reframing challenges into “how might we” questions.

11:07 – Develop and Deliver
Brainstorming and brainwriting, evaluating ideas for viability, feasibility, and desirability, prototyping, and iterative testing.

15:49 – Real-world example
Hypothetical university case study showing the process from research to funded, ongoing programme.

16:59 – Iterating and applying
When and why to return to earlier stages, and tips for trying parts of the process in everyday work.

17:49 – 18:08 - Wrap up and sign off

Michael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠academic⁠, ⁠founder⁠, improviser, and ⁠musician⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.