TRIZ & Design Thinking – is there any difference?

TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) and Design Thinking are two problem-solving methodologies that can be used in various contexts, including product design, engineering, and innovation.

But of course there must be some differences between the two:

Origin and history
TRIZ was developed in the former Soviet Union by Genrich Altshuller and his colleagues in the 1940s and 1950s. It is based on the analysis of millions of patents and the identification of recurring patterns of problem-solving. Design Thinking, on the other hand, emerged in the 1990s in the United States as a way to tackle complex problems in a creative and user-centered way.

Problem-solving approach
TRIZ is a systematic problem-solving approach that focuses on identifying contradictions and using scientific principles to resolve them. It relies on a set of tools and techniques to generate innovative solutions. Design Thinking, on the other hand, is a human-centered approach that emphasizes empathy, experimentation, and iteration. It involves understanding users' needs and desires, brainstorming and prototyping ideas, testing and refining solutions.

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TRIZ & Design Thinking – is there any difference?

Role of creativity
TRIZ places a strong emphasis on creativity, but it is seen as a systematic process that can be learned and applied. Design Thinking, on the other hand, places a higher value on creativity as a mindset and a way of approaching problems. It encourages the use of divergent thinking to generate a wide range of ideas and solutions.

Focus on optimization
TRIZ is primarily focused on optimization and improvement of existing systems and products. It aims to minimize waste, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. Design Thinking, on the other hand, is more focused on creating new products and services that meet users' needs and desires. It aims to createvalue and delight for users.

In summary, TRIZ and Design Thinking are two distinct problem-solving methodologies that can be applied in different contexts but there is no limits to combine them and gain the value from both.

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