Design Thinking x Gen AI - The effect of generative AI on the results of a Design Thinking workshop

Abstract

This thesis examines the impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) on the process and outcome of a Design Thinking workshop. It is concerned with the issue of how the use of GenAI influences innovative problem-solving, innovation processes, and collaboration. The paper starts with a reflection on Design Thinking's theoretical background and the business use of GenAI. It explains how companies use Generative AI for innovation processes and the issues arising. Current focus is on the change of business models, ethical questions and legal requirements. The empirical part is based on a Design Thinking workshop with three groups. These groups received varying degrees of GenAI support: one worked traditionally with no AI, one was permitted to use AI tools but was not given any further instructions, and the third group was actively assisted with GenAI guidance and prompting strategies. The goal was to analyze the disparity in result and working process. The workshop participants created solutions for the design challenge: " How can openness to change be promoted in the public sector in order to successfully enable innovation?". The findings demonstrate substantial difference between the groups. The group with targeted AI support came up with the most creative and innovative solutions, while the group without AI would come up with more conservative solutions. It was also evident that natural usage of AI without support was not as effective as targeted support. Expert review of the solutions created also demonstrated that AI-supported groups would create more innovative, but not always feasible solutions. In conclusion, the research validates that GenAI can be used to aid innovation processes in addition to developing creativity. Meanwhile, effective use of AI demands a systematic process such that the best value is obtained from its capabilities. This has implications on organizations and businesses that plan to use AI in their innovation processes. Lastly, action recommendations are given that facilitate successful incorporation of GenAI in Design Thinking processes.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	English
Supervisor	Alexander Brendel-Schauberger (Supervisor) & Kristiana Roth (Supervisor)