Designers can use design thinking processes such as divergent and convergent thinking to move from the Empathize phase to the Define phase. Divergent thinking helps in exploring various perspectives and techniques to understand the needs and preferences of end users. For example, in Module One, you used different tools like a mood board and a mind map to empathize with the end users. After understanding the end-user perspective, designers must converge on a few problem areas they want to solve. The convergent thinking process can help in defining an effective problem statement.
In this discussion, you will reflect on the use of divergent and convergent thinking in the Empathize and Define phases.
In your initial post, address the following in no more than 2–3 paragraphs:
Reflect on your use of divergent thinking in the Empathize phase in Module One.
How did you explore the preferences of the customers from different perspectives?
Using divergent thinking techniques, describe one additional method for understanding the customers in the Empathize phase.
In what ways can you use convergent thinking to define a problem statement?
Describe the Define phase of the design thinking process.
Describe the steps you may take to focus on problem areas.
