How to Set Up Design Thinking Sessions That Deliver Results

Last week, we explored the foundational principles of design thinking and its transformative potential. This week, let’s dive into the practical side—how to set up a design thinking session that fosters creativity, collaboration, and productivity. Creating the right environment isn’t just about logistics; it’s about setting the stage for breakthrough ideas and seamless teamwork.

Here’s how you can organize a design thinking session that energizes your participants and delivers results:

1. The Space: Go Big and Comfortable

The right physical space is crucial for engagement. Find the largest conference room in your office or a creative off-site venue.

Why?

Because design thinking thrives on movement, collaboration, and visual expression. A cramped, traditional boardroom with rigid seating just won’t cut it.

Features to prioritize in your space:

• Ample walking space: Participants should be able to move around freely during ideation and group discussions.
• Wall space: For sticky notes, flowcharts, and brainstorming ideas. A room with whiteboards or writable glass panels is a bonus.
• Comfortable seating: Modular seating arrangements that can adapt to different group sizes work best.

Example: A fintech startup planned its design thinking workshop to ideate a new mobile payment feature. Instead of using their regular meeting room, they booked a coworking space with large windows, writable walls, and plenty of space to spread out. The change in scenery made participants feel more creative and open to brainstorming.

2. The Props: Equip for Creativity

Design thinking is hands-on. Equip your session with tools that spark creativity and help participants visualize their ideas. Here’s a checklist of essential props:

• Whiteboards and markers: For drawing ideas, mapping processes, or quick visualizations.
• Sticky notes: These are indispensable for capturing individual thoughts and grouping them into themes.
• Notepads and pens: Ensure everyone can jot down personal ideas before sharing.
• Sketches and charts: Provide templates to guide brainstorming (e.g., empathy maps, customer journey charts).
• Large LCD monitor or projector: For showcasing digital prototypes or presentations.
• Poker cards: Yes, poker cards! These can be used for quick voting exercises when prioritizing ideas.

Example: A healthcare organization was redesigning its patient intake process. During their design thinking session, poker cards were used for a prioritization exercise where team members voted on the most impactful pain points to address first. This interactive tool made decision-making fast and fun.

3. Snacks and Sustainability: Fuel for the Day

Let’s face it—no one can brainstorm on an empty stomach. Providing the right snacks is essential for keeping energy levels up and participants engaged.

What to include:

• A mix of sweet and savory options: Think granola bars, mixed nuts, fruit slices, and whole-grain crackers.
• Healthy snacks: Avoid heavy foods that lead to a post-lunch slump. Fresh salads, yogurt, and hummus with veggies work well.
• Big water bottles: To reduce single-use plastic, opt for glass or reusable dispensers.

Why snacks matter: Design thinking sessions are often longer than typical meetings and require sustained focus. Providing healthy and sustainable snacks shows you value your team’s well-being and aligns with environmentally friendly practices.

I am a chef as well so I know! :-)

Example: During a retail brand’s ideation session, they introduced a mid-session snack break with colorful fruit platters and lemon-infused water. This not only re-energized the group but also sparked informal conversations that led to fresh ideas when they reconvened.

Bonus Tip: The Playlist Factor

Adding light background music during certain phases (like individual brainstorming) can enhance focus and creativity. Choose instrumental tracks that are upbeat but not distracting.

Final Thoughts

A well-organized design thinking session is more than just a meeting; it’s an experience. By thoughtfully curating the space, equipping it with the right props, and providing the necessary fuel, you create an environment where ideas can flow freely, and collaboration can thrive.

Remember, small details like writable walls or poker cards might seem trivial, but they can make all the difference in elevating the energy and outcomes of your session. So, the next time you plan a design thinking workshop, think big, plan creatively, and prepare to inspire!

Are you ready to set the stage for innovation? Let’s make your next session unforgettable.