Abstract
Design Thinking (DT) has been a successful approach for innovation. The project assumes that DT can help Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) professionals solve complex OHS problems in a participatory way. DT may be defined by the double diamond model of a non-linear and user-centred problem-solving process iterating through divergent and convergent phases. It offers a problem-solving process with flexibility
in selection of tools and methods. The objectives were:
1. Train OHS professionals to apply Design thinking tools to handle complex OHS problems
2. Develop Design Thinking as an OHS management method
The research design was interactive. We trained 6 OHS professionals to apply DT in a day course followed by a learning-by-doing process. The professionals then conducted 2-3 design sprints in 4 companies focused on complex psychosocial or musculoskeletal problems. Mixed methods were used to evaluate the learning outcome. We questioned the professionals in surveys and interviews and observed all sprint activities. Data analysis showed a steep learning curve after the training workshop assessed on a 1-10 rating scale. In the question of usability of DT in OHS management, the average rating went from 6 before the training course to 9.5 after design sprint 2. Based on the results we developed a guide to apply the method in an iterative process using prototypes and feedback from practitioners and stakeholders.
Observations and interviews confirmed that the OHS consultants were able to plan and facilitate design sprints in real life. However, in handling the double diamond process they were sometime surprised by
the iterative nature. OHS professionals are key players if the Design Thinking approach is to be used in the field of OHS management. However, it takes training to master the approach, mindset, and the tools. The OHS professional will have to take a role as planner and facilitator of design sprints, including participatory workshops with stakeholders.
in selection of tools and methods. The objectives were:
1. Train OHS professionals to apply Design thinking tools to handle complex OHS problems
2. Develop Design Thinking as an OHS management method
The research design was interactive. We trained 6 OHS professionals to apply DT in a day course followed by a learning-by-doing process. The professionals then conducted 2-3 design sprints in 4 companies focused on complex psychosocial or musculoskeletal problems. Mixed methods were used to evaluate the learning outcome. We questioned the professionals in surveys and interviews and observed all sprint activities. Data analysis showed a steep learning curve after the training workshop assessed on a 1-10 rating scale. In the question of usability of DT in OHS management, the average rating went from 6 before the training course to 9.5 after design sprint 2. Based on the results we developed a guide to apply the method in an iterative process using prototypes and feedback from practitioners and stakeholders.
Observations and interviews confirmed that the OHS consultants were able to plan and facilitate design sprints in real life. However, in handling the double diamond process they were sometime surprised by
the iterative nature. OHS professionals are key players if the Design Thinking approach is to be used in the field of OHS management. However, it takes training to master the approach, mindset, and the tools. The OHS professional will have to take a role as planner and facilitator of design sprints, including participatory workshops with stakeholders.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Book of abstract of Focus on Humans in a Technological World |
| Publication date | 2022 |
| Publication status | Published - 2022 |
| Event | 11th International Conference of WorkingOnSafety.net 2022: Focus on humans in a technological world - Algarve, Portugal Duration: 25 Sept 2022 → 28 Sept 2022 Conference number: 11 https://wos2022.net/ |
Conference
| Conference | 11th International Conference of WorkingOnSafety.net 2022 |
|---|---|
| Number | 11 |
| Country/Territory | Portugal |
| City | Algarve |
| Period | 25/09/2022 → 28/09/2022 |
| Internet address |