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Solving strategic management challenges with Design Thinking: examining the suitability and effectiveness as a management method

Author

Listed:
  • Arkin Efeoglu

    (Aalborg University)

  • Charles Møller

    (Aalborg University)

Abstract

Design Thinking (DT) is widely recognized for its role in product and service innovation. However, its application as a management method, where executives employ to address their own management problems, remains underexplored. Previous research on DT in management discourse has mainly focused on its impact on organizations when infused at scale, analyzing organizational innovativeness, innovation culture, or product innovation. Given that DT is primarily a human-centric approach, it may seem incompatible with addressing abstract strategic management problems. This raises questions about the DT’s applicability and effectiveness in addressing managerial challenges. This paper presents an interview-based qualitative study evaluating DT’s potential for solving wicked management problems. The study illuminates the dilemmas and peculiarities associated with applying DT in a management context. This paper offers novel insights into DT’s potential as a transformative tool in strategic management, bridging the gap between traditional management methods and design-led approaches to strategy formulation and implementation.

Suggested Citation

  • Arkin Efeoglu & Charles Møller, 2025. "Solving strategic management challenges with Design Thinking: examining the suitability and effectiveness as a management method," Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Springer, vol. 14(1), pages 1-28, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:joiaen:v:14:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1186_s13731-025-00469-w
    DOI: 10.1186/s13731-025-00469-w
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nicolas Rösch & Victor Tiberius & Sascha Kraus, 2023. "Design thinking for innovation: context factors, process, and outcomes," European Journal of Innovation Management, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 26(7), pages 160-176, March.
    2. Grace MUGADZA & Roy MARCUS, 2019. "A Systems Thinking and Design Thinking Approach to Leadership," Expert Journal of Business and Management, Sprint Investify, vol. 7(1), pages 1-10.
    3. Arabinda Bhandari, 2023. "Design Thinking: from Bibliometric Analysis to Content Analysis, Current Research Trends, and Future Research Directions," Journal of the Knowledge Economy, Springer;Portland International Center for Management of Engineering and Technology (PICMET), vol. 14(3), pages 3097-3152, September.
    4. Rahmin Bender-Salazar, 2023. "Design thinking as an effective method for problem-setting and needfinding for entrepreneurial teams addressing wicked problems," Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Springer, vol. 12(1), pages 1-23, December.
    5. Sandro GRAF, 2021. "Design Thinking for Strategizing? – A Critical Literature Review," Journal of Emerging Trends in Marketing and Management, The Bucharest University of Economic Studies, vol. 1(1), pages 110-119, August.
    6. Xinya You, 2022. "Applying design thinking for business model innovation," Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Springer, vol. 11(1), pages 1-25, December.
    7. Albana Berisha Qehaja & Enver Kutllovci & Justina Shiroka Pula, 2017. "Strategic Management Tools and Techniques Usage: a Qualitative Review," Acta Universitatis Agriculturae et Silviculturae Mendelianae Brunensis, Mendel University Press, vol. 65(2), pages 585-600.
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