Leveraging Design Thinking Methodologies to Overcome Innovation Challenges in Multidisciplinary Research and Practice: A Case Study Approach

Abstract

Innovation is a critical driver of progress, but multidisciplinary research and practice present unique challenges to innovation due to the diverse perspectives, priorities, and knowledge involved. Design thinking has emerged as a promising approach to overcome these challenges, providing a structured and collaborative framework that fosters creativity and iteration. However, little research has been conducted on the effectiveness of design thinking in multidisciplinary research and practice. The objectives of this study are to (1) assess the effectiveness of design thinking methodologies in fostering successful innovation in multidisciplinary research and practice, (2) identify the key factors that contribute to or hinder the successful application of design thinking in multidisciplinary contexts, and (3) develop a set of best practices for leveraging design thinking in multidisciplinary research and practice. This study will use a case study approach to investigate the application of design thinking in multidisciplinary research and practice. The case studies will be selected based on their level of multidisciplinary, complexity, and innovation challenges. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews, observation, and document analysis. The data will be analyzed using thematic analysis and triangulation of data sources to ensure validity and reliability. This study is expected to contribute to the understanding of how design thinking methodologies can be leveraged to overcome innovation challenges in multidisciplinary research and practice. The study is also expected to provide insights into the factors that contribute to or hinder the successful application of design thinking in multidisciplinary contexts. Finally, the study will develop a set of best practices for leveraging design thinking in multidisciplinary research and practice that can guide future research and practice in this area. This study is significant because it addresses a critical gap in the literature on the application of design thinking in multidisciplinary research and practice. The study is also significant because it provides practical insights into how design thinking can be leveraged to overcome innovation challenges in multidisciplinary contexts, thereby promoting progress and the advancement of human well-being.