Design thinking for wicked problems

What is “Design thinking for wicked problems?”

This space will be used to investigate various ways to utilize design thinking for wicked problems. In the public space, scrutiny can come globally from anyone with Internet access, providing an essential element to an open and critical examination. I will provide unique content spanning a wide area of interest, and if compelling to other users, we will generate a conversation that can aid in better understanding the wicked problems we are facing today.

What are wicked problems? These are complex issues with no clear answer, and are approached with the intent of seeking solutions that range across a gradient of better or worse. Wicked problems are often multi-pronged and implemented in stages over a period of time. Therefore the term wicked speaks, not of moral judgment, but of inherent complexity.

Who needs design thinking?

I’m a Gen-X’er, and we, along with the Millennial Generation closely behind us, are facing a slew of wicked problems. These complex issues are, quite arguably, unprecedented for any generation in the post-industrial age. If you are in your late teens, 20’s, 30’s or early 40’s, here is what we have on our plate:

• Social Security in USA depleted by our retirement age
• USA national debt is now almost equal to GDP
• Almost 1 in 5 Americans are now unemployed per U-6 numbers
• Healthcare premiums are rising 30% or more per year
• College costs have risen exponentially beyond the median income over the past decade
• Continued racial and immigrant tensions along with inequalities
• An escalation of nuclear proliferation by governments, some understood to be less than stable, presenting the real threat of detonation in our lifetime

That’s a bugger of a list. Is the situation hopeless? The good news is that both upcoming generations, I would argue particularly the Millenniums, are setting a new paradigm of altruism through transparency, authenticity and empathy. While there are ominous clouds on the horizon, this coming storm will test the mettle of today’s X’ers and Millenniums. We’ll see how well the hopeful and optimistic expectations weather and carry us through the storm.

Design thinking breaks down your barriers

Granted, none of the above attributes are absolutes, and this is the beauty of design thinking, it helps us to better understand innovative solutions in the beauty of gray. You and I as humans have an innate need to quickly categorize new problems into existing schemas for the sake of expediency. We hold stereotypes and biases, not because we want to go through life as dogmatic partisans, but because we just don’t have the time to fully understand the complexities of each situation.

Design thinking forces us to slow down and better understand. To see the situation as Chip and Dan Heath stated in Made to Stick without the “Curse Of Knowledge.” Can we look at a situation with fresh eyes, like that of a child? Can we force ourselves to be fluent in an opposing viewpoint before stating our own? This is where ideation germinates, and with implementation, can lead to daring and innovative concepts.

New media is providing a wealth of information. This information can lead us to clear understanding and valuable knowledge. The challenge today is for you and I to filter out the chaff and to clearly understand the facts. Services that can present pure content in a clear and accessible manner will be an increasingly valuable commodity.

My intent is to add to this discussion in a succinct and meaningful manner. And to have fun along the way.

~ gabriel

Tags: design thinking, wicked problems