Abstract

Design thinking is a human (and planet) centred collaborative approach, mindset and range of methodologies for reframing and proposing potential solutions to complex and wicked problems. It is particularly useful in research contexts at the different stages of a project where problems are abstract or ill-defined. Design thinking can transform the way researchers approach and share research ideas, methods, processes and proposals. As an innovative approach, it can be used to anticipate and identify future research needs, to develop systemised solutions specific to a research challenge or problem, especially within and across multi-disciplinary teams.

Design thinking promotes a practical, creative approach by opening up different ways of thinking that can help researchers move beyond their disciplinary methodological training. It can help to create new mindsets for researchers and to enable approaches to thinking about research opportunities. As a methodology it can help researchers and research managers overcome the challenges of a fast-paced research environment, particularly in areas that are technology and data driven.

In this project, we assess how design thinking could be utilised to support RMAs working with researchers to design projects and write proposals, while also considering the relevance of these approaches to the organisation of a research development function, especially in contexts departing from the conventional organisation of departments and centres in higher education institutions. We do this through engagement between the design thinking team at a creative-focused HEI and the RMA team at a large, inter-institutional research centre.