The History of Design Thinking - a short history

The history of Design Thinking dates back to the 1960s and is a fascinating study of the evolution of creative problem-solving. Designers were formerly known for creating solutions to problems that were often considered "wicked," and they used this anthropological approach to understand human nature and the motivations behind human behavior. But, in the last few decades, Design Thinking has grown into a discipline that is more than just a methodology.

The history of Design Thinking can be traced back to the early 1970s. IDEO, a non-profit organization, had supported the approach since 1991 and hosted the first Design-Thinking Research Symposia. In 2005, IDEO helped found the d.school at Stanford University (officially the Hasso Plattner Institute of Innovation and Design). And in 2010, the D-School at HPI opened in Potsdam, Germany.

John Dewey, american philosopher also advocated the use of design thinking to improve the quality of life. His idea that all things are interrelated was influential at the turn of the twentieth century and paved the way for many other design approaches. The philosophy behind Design-Thinking is that humans experience products and services not in a vacuum but in situations where they have different needs and preferences.

While the evolution of Design Thinking is often referred to as linear, the evolution of its practices has been much more complex. Despite the emergence of numerous design methods and methodologies, the history of the field is complex and evolving. 

Although the history of the process can vary depending on who you ask, the fundamental concepts behind the process are consistent. The process is based on empathy for the end user. While it may seem abstract, it can be an essential framework for innovation. And it is a tool that can be easily applied to various areas of life. A good example of design thinking is the design of a car. It can be a great way to improve the user experience.