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Design Thinking Transfer Gap: Differences Between Knowledge and Application of Design Thinking in the Organizational Environment

In: Design Thinking Research

Author

Listed:
  • Lena Mayer

    (University of Potsdam)

  • Selina Mayer

    (University of Potsdam)

  • Katharina Hölzle

    (IAT Universität Stuttgart und Fraunhofer IAO, IAT Universität Stuttgart)

  • Nikolaus Bönke

    (Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg)

  • Christoph Meinel

    (University of Potsdam)

Abstract

Design thinking has become a popular innovation approach in organizations globally. The request for design thinking (DT) training has increased in the past 10 years. However, the question remains if and how employees transfer their DT knowledge into their organization. In this study, we assess employees’ DT knowledge and DT application in an international company. We assume a gap between what employees know and apply, what we call the design thinking transfer gap. Furthermore, we assess employees’ perception of their own DT practice vs. the company’s DT practice. We find that on average, employees rate their knowledge of DT significantly higher than the extent of the application of DT in their work. Employees also perceive their individual practice of DT as higher than the company’s practice, indicating a potential mismatch between the organizational climate for innovation and employees’ capabilities. Our results call for further examination of the design thinking transfer gap. We discuss future research avenues and point out practical implications.

Suggested Citation

  • Lena Mayer & Selina Mayer & Katharina Hölzle & Nikolaus Bönke & Christoph Meinel, 2023. "Design Thinking Transfer Gap: Differences Between Knowledge and Application of Design Thinking in the Organizational Environment," Understanding Innovation, in: Christoph Meinel & Larry Leifer (ed.), Design Thinking Research, pages 359-382, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:undchp:978-3-031-36103-6_17
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-36103-6_17
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