The Ideation Phase: Maximizing Potential Solutions

In a prior posting, I wrote about the interdependence of collaboration and cross-functional teams in successfully executing design thinking. The step of the design thinking process where this is most evident is our ability to ideate creatively in approaching the problems we are attempting to solve. Ideation is a critical part of the design thinking process and an organization’s problem-solving ability, generating potentially new and creative ideas that can lead to innovative solutions. First and foremost, formal ideation is essential because it allows designers and innovators to explore a wide range of possibilities. By generating many ideas for consideration, teams have increased potential to realize a solution and can develop varied approaches to a particular problem or challenge.

In a formal design thinking approach, the ideate step helps teams focus their creative efforts to find solutions aligned with users’ needs. Through a consistent practice of idea generation, design teams are more likely to identify potential solutions and successfully address the problem they are attempting to solve. This can save time and resources in the long run. In a formal or informal capacity, idea generation can foster a culture of creativity and innovation that encourages designers and innovators to take risks and try new things. Ultimately, idea generation and the resulting intellectual portfolio of potential solutions can lead to breakthrough innovations that can significantly impact an organization.

• A quantity-over-quality approach in the ideation phase can generate diverse beliefs and explore various possibilities. By generating many ideas, teams can identify opportunities and consider multiple strategies for a challenge.

• Ideation also helps to foster a culture of creativity and innovation. When teams are encouraged and provided opportunities to collaborate with colleagues in problem-solving, they are more likely to develop innovative solutions based on their diverse perspectives.

• Involving diverse individuals in the ideation process can lead to a more dynamic and forward-thinking organization or team.

Finally, an ideation process is essential because it encourages designers and innovators to take risks. When they generate new and creative ideas, they are likelier to take chances and try something new. This can lead to breakthrough innovations significantly impacting the organization or industry.

Inspiration & Further Reading

Interaction Design Foundation. (2024, March 31). What is ideation? - updated 2024. The Interaction Design Foundation.

Joubert, Shayna. (2017, December 1). How Ideation Techniques Can Solve Challenging Business Problems. Northeastern University.

User, G. (2019, June 12). Improving your odds at positive disruption. Stanford d.school.