NEXUS NEWS

NEW DESIGN THINKING SHORT COURSE

November 16, 2023

by Britney Rivers

Toni Benner

In 2024, Nexus is launching a new professional development course called Design Thinking. This 2-day immersive learning experience, taught by leading change action researcher Toni Benner, will focus on how to integrate the use of self and organizational growth.

WHY DESIGN THINKING MATTERS

Design thinking is a human-centric problem-solving approach that helps bring ideas to fruition. This process uses strategic action and positive organizational change to push initiatives forward. Toni Benner shares, “Design thinking provides an opportunity to learn the key strategies to improve products and services through transformational change. This process starts with people at the center of the design and emphasizes iteration, collaboration, and empathy.”

It can be challenging to introduce new initiatives into organizations. Design thinking invites the opportunity for change and can positively impact your organization’s products, services, and corporate culture. This approach prioritizes the importance of understanding and meeting the needs of your teammates and customers. By honoring diversity of thought and perspective, organizations can develop more meaningful and effective solutions.

AN OPPORTUNITY FOR ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE

Both individuals and teams can benefit from this human-centered approach. The design thinking process is applicable in many industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, non-profit, technology, and more. Toni says, “Anyone managing, leading, or going through a transition should attend the Design Thinking course. Startup businesses and development teams seeking to make significant changes in their organizations will benefit from this approach.

While middle management can often get stuck balancing daily operations and goal execution, design thinking offers a solution. Design thinking equips you with the strategies to navigate workplace challenges, better support your team members, and improve your products and services. 

A COLLABORATIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE 

According to Toni, “A key component of the Design Thinking course is understanding the power of iteration in an organization. How do we include diversity of thought in our decision-making? How do we engage with our team members? How does our product or service benefit our customers? We will explore the importance of trial and error and open our mindsets to accept change.” 

This course provides a collaborative space to decipher the strengths and weaknesses in your organization, define attainable goals, and brainstorm new ideas. Through interactive workshops, group discussions, and in-depth comparative analysis, you will create a solid roadmap to drive innovation and transformation in your organization. By the end of the course, you will understand the essential tools to become a change agent and make strategic decisions for your organization.

middle management can often get stuck balancing daily operations and goal execution, design thinking offers a solution. Design thinking equips you with the strategies to navigate workplace challenges, better support your team members, and improve your products and services. 

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CONTACT US

Would you like to request a custom course? Please email Andrea Schuitman at aschuit@umich.edu or submit the form below.

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