エピソード

  • Ep 1.6: Understanding the define phase of design thinking

    Ep 1.6: Understanding the define phase of design thinking
    2025/10/26
    Check out the episode guide.⁠⁠The define phase is where design thinking shifts from collecting information to making it usable. In this episode of Idea Work, we explore how to synthesise research, identify themes, and create actionable insights. Learn practical techniques like affinity mapping, digital and in-person tools, and ways to ensure your findings survive past the workshop.Listen on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Castbox⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠iHeart⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠⁠Resources MentionedDesign Kit – methods library (filter by ideation)MiroMuralTimestamps0:02 – IntroductionWelcome back to Idea Work. Michael sets up today’s focus on the Define phase and why synthesis is the bridge from research to action.0:41 – What the Define phase doesClarifies that the Double Diamond isn’t linear, and explains moving from messy research to usable insights that guide ideas.2:40 – Affinity mapping: turning data into themesTeam captures quotes, stats and observations as full-sentence Post-its, then clusters them into themes to surface patterns and insights.4:10 – Working digitally and capturing insightsUsing Miro/Mural to co-synthesise, label themes, and photograph boards. Emphasis on giving this stage time and avoiding a rush to shiny solutions.6:54 – Personas (done responsibly)How to build data-informed personas without stereotyping. What to include (demographics, needs, quotes, behaviours) and how they guide decisions.8:39 – Keep a critical mindsetFrameworks are abstractions with flaws. Learn them, use them, critique them, and evolve an approach that fits your context.9:30 – Crafting “How might we” questionsPurpose of HMW, with Tom and David Kelley’s framing of “how,” “might,” and “we.” Aim for an open, optimistic prompt for ideation.11:34 – Calibrating scope: bad vs good HMWExamples of questions that are too similar, too narrow or too broad, and a “just right” version that enables multiple solution paths.15:01 – Choosing the problem holder and refining HMWSometimes the focus shifts (e.g., supporting university staff to market services). Allow time to iterate the question and draw from research.16:47–16:54 – Wrap up and sign offRecap of the Define phase and a handover to the next episode on ideation.Michael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠⁠⁠academic⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠founder⁠⁠⁠, improviser, and ⁠⁠⁠musician⁠⁠⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.
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    17 分
  • Ep 1.5: Understanding the discover phase of design thinking

    Ep 1.5: Understanding the discover phase of design thinking
    2025/10/12
    Check out the episode guide! In this episode of Idea Work, we explore the discover phase of design thinking, the stage where you dive deep into the problem space, challenge assumptions, and gather insights that shape effective solutions. Learn how to “rip the brief”, plan meaningful research, navigate ethics, and know when to stop gathering data.Resources mentionedDesign Kit – methods library (filter by inspiration)Listen on ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Castbox⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠iHeart⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠Timestamps0:02 – IntroductionWelcome to Idea Work. Michael sets up the episode’s focus on the Discover phase of the Double Diamond and why deep research matters before jumping to solutions.0:42 – Moving from client brief to discoveryExplains the reverse brief process, aligning expectations, and starting team research to understand the problem space without bias.1:34 – Ripping the brief and mapping key termsBreaks down broad terms like “health” and “international students” into subtopics using mind mapping and Post-it notes to reveal hidden assumptions.3:58 – Developing a research planCovers blending qualitative and quantitative methods, choosing what’s realistic, and crafting clear research questions.5:14 – Building a stakeholder mapIdentifies key interviewees, emphasises diversity, and offers the principle that any research is better than none.6:15 – Ethics, consent, and sensitive topicsOutlines how to create information statements, consent processes, and securely store de-identified data.8:08 – Crafting and testing interview questionsShares tips for semi-structured interviews, active listening, adapting questions, and using silence effectively.11:24 – Selecting tools for researchRecommends recording, transcription, survey, and collaboration platforms, with advice on managing online tools like Miro.14:01 – Secondary research and team coordinationHighlights reputable sources for background data, and how to divide research tasks effectively across a team.16:09 – Knowing when to stop researchingExplains data saturation, project deadlines, and the natural blend between the Discover and Define phases.18:24 – Wrap up and sign offReinforces the importance of deep discovery work and previews the upcoming episode on the Define phase.Michael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠⁠academic⁠⁠, ⁠⁠founder⁠⁠, improviser, and ⁠⁠musician⁠⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.
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    19 分
  • Ep 1.4: Before you start: setting up for a successful design thinking project

    Ep 1.4: Before you start: setting up for a successful design thinking project
    2025/09/28
    Check out the episode guide! In this episode of Idea Work, I explore the preparation phase of a design thinking project, the often-overlooked stage that sets everything up for success. Learn how to run your first team meeting, set expectations, prepare for client conversations, and use tools to keep everyone aligned. We’ll also look at the value of reverse briefs and why client engagement is part of your product. Whether you’re leading a project or joining one, these tips will help you start strong. Resources mentionedMiroMuralSlackTrelloAsanaNotionClickupListen on ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ | ⁠Amazon Music⁠ | ⁠Castbox⁠ | ⁠Goodpods⁠ | ⁠iHeart⁠ | ⁠Pocket Casts⁠Timestamps0:02 – IntroductionWelcome to Idea Work. What the show covers and who it’s for.0:39 – Episode aimWhat to do before starting a design thinking project. Why strong setup matters for any complex project.1:28 – Case study setupHypothetical brief: a small design team helps a university improve international students’ access to on‑campus health services.2:37 – Team foundationsRoles, responsibilities, communication norms, and when to seek external support. Setting expectations early to avoid problems later.4:33 – Tools and platformsChoosing collaboration and project tools (e.g. digital whiteboards, comms, and task managers) so the team can work smoothly.5:20 – Preparing for the client meetingDo background research on the organisation and problem space. Map stakeholders. Arrive with thoughtful questions rather than a sales pitch.9:00 – Scoping and expectationsClarify deliverables, feedback points, timelines and budget. Manage expectations, especially if outcomes are exploratory.13:08 – Reverse brief and approvalTurn the discussion into a clear plan with scope, responsibilities and schedule. Share for sign‑off.14:01 – Client engagement is part of the productProfessional, transparent process builds trust and referrals. From approval to action and next steps.17:07–17:14 – Wrap up and sign offInvitation for comments, subscribe reminder, and thanks to listeners.Michael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠academic⁠, ⁠founder⁠, improviser, and ⁠musician⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.
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    17 分
  • Ep 1.3: Design layers explained: from graphic to service to strategy

    Ep 1.3: Design layers explained: from graphic to service to strategy
    2025/09/14
    Check out the episode guide.⁠Design has layers, from communication and product design to UX/UI, service, strategic and systemic design. In this episode, I use a music analogy and a fast‑food case study to show how these disciplines connect, where architecture and interior design fit, and why the goal isn’t hierarchy but fit for the problem. You’ll learn the focus of each layer, how skills transfer across them, and how to spot the right level of design for your challenge. Perfect if you’re new to design or explaining your work to colleagues.Listen on ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Castbox⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Goodpods⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠iHeart⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠Resources MentionedRichard Buchanan – Four Orders of DesignRhino 3DFigmaInteraction Design Foundation – UX vs UIService Design ToolsIDEO Design KitEllen MacArthur Foundation – Circular DesignTimestamps0:02 – IntroductionShow open and what the series explores: the people, skills, and mindsets behind innovation.0:42 – Why “design layers” matterSetting up the episode goal: clarifying what different designers do, and why the same core skills can scale from pages to experiences.1:40 – Design is like musicA relatable analogy for disciplines and craft: shared foundations across “genres,” but different depths of skill and craftsmanship.4:34 – From print to productsCommunication design (layout, branding, making the complex simple) and the evolution to product/industrial design (ergonomics, tools, 3D modeling/printing).7:12 – UX vs UI, then service designHow user experience and interface design differ—and how service design stitches channels, spaces, and touchpoints into an end-to-end journey.9:36 – Strategy, systems, and the built environmentDesign at policy/organizational scale (strategic/systemic design), alongside architecture/spatial design as a parallel domain.11:19 – McDonald’s walkthrough: one experience, many layersA concrete case study following a customer from app notification to kiosk, seating, packaging, and store flow—showing how multiple design layers work together.17:01 – Beyond the store: co-design, circularity, strategyDesigning training and inclusion with stakeholders, thinking circular for materials, and using systemic/strategic lenses to steer complex programs.20:07 – How layers collaborate (and careers move)Why no layer is “higher”—they’re different scopes that interlock, and skills can transfer between them over a career.21:02 – 21:09 – Wrap up and sign offClosing thanks and subscribe reminder.Michael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠⁠academic⁠⁠, ⁠⁠founder⁠⁠, improviser, and ⁠⁠musician⁠⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.
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    21 分
  • Ep 1.2: Understanding design thinking and the double diamond

    Ep 1.2: Understanding design thinking and the double diamond
    2025/08/31

    Check out the episode guide.


    In this episode, I break down design thinking and the Double Diamond, a powerful framework for tackling complex problems. Learn the four stages, practical tools, and how to start applying them in any role.


    Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ | ⁠Amazon Music⁠ | ⁠Castbox⁠ | ⁠Goodpods⁠ | ⁠iHeart⁠ | ⁠Pocket Casts⁠

    Resources mentioned

    • Natasha Jen — “Design Thinking is BS” talk

    • IDEO Design Kit

    Timestamps

    0:02 – Introduction
    Welcome to Idea Work and overview of the show’s purpose — exploring what innovation professionals and designers do, and how they create change.

    1:26 – Why design thinking?
    Clarifying the method’s purpose, where it applies, and how it differs from solving simple, well-defined problems.

    4:00 – Critiques and philosophy
    Acknowledging criticisms of design thinking and viewing it as both a flexible process and a mindset.

    5:56 – The Double Diamond framework
    Origin, four stages (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver), and the importance of iteration rather than a rigid sequence.

    8:01 – Discover and Define
    Research methods, affinity mapping, personas, and reframing challenges into “how might we” questions.

    11:07 – Develop and Deliver
    Brainstorming and brainwriting, evaluating ideas for viability, feasibility, and desirability, prototyping, and iterative testing.

    15:49 – Real-world example
    Hypothetical university case study showing the process from research to funded, ongoing programme.

    16:59 – Iterating and applying
    When and why to return to earlier stages, and tips for trying parts of the process in everyday work.

    17:49 – 18:08 - Wrap up and sign off

    Michael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠academic⁠, ⁠founder⁠, improviser, and ⁠musician⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.
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    18 分
  • Ep 1.1: Finding my way into design and innovation

    Ep 1.1: Finding my way into design and innovation
    2025/08/17
    Check out the episode guide! In this first episode of Idea Work, I share the vision for the podcast and why I started it. I talk about my own journey from teaching and the not-for-profit sector into design and innovation, the experiences that shaped me, and what listeners can expect from the show. Whether you’re new to design or a seasoned practitioner, Idea Work is about the people, skills, and mindsets behind innovation – told through stories, interviews, and practical insights.Resources mentionedIdea Work on SubstackAcumen Academy — Human‑Centred Design Academy Xi — Service DesignTelstra Foundation (Imaginarium program, archived)Design Factory Melbourne (Swinburne University)Global Service JamListen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | Castbox | Goodpods | iHeart | Pocket CastsTimestamps0:02 – IntroductionIntroduction to Idea Work and who it’s for, people starting in innovation, shifting careers, or simply curious.0:40 – Episode purposeExploring the vision for the show and what listeners can expect.1:26 – Michael’s backgroundFrom teaching and not-for-profits into a PhD in design and innovation at Swinburne University.2:34 – Early spark for collaboration researchWhy cross-sector collaboration between not-for-profits and research institutions became a focus.2:39 – Discovery of design thinkingFirst encounters, service design jam, Acumen Plus human-centred design course.3:29 – Telstra ImaginariumLearning the design thinking process deeply with other not-for-profits.4:09 – Applying design thinking in the workplaceUsing strategic/service design skills in a not-for-profit role.4:42 – Service design course at Academy XiIntensive learning experience and what service design looks like in practice (bank example).5:51 – Ongoing journey into designCompleting a Master’s, teaching design thinking and design strategy.6:22 – Encouragement for newcomersReassurance that people from non-design backgrounds can succeed in design.7:05 – Expanding into innovationTeaching at Swinburne’s Design Factory and exploring overlap between innovation and design thinking.7:46 – Purpose of the showHighlighting both the ideas and the people who do “idea work”.8:25 – Show formatInterviews, explainers, solo episodes — open to listener suggestions.8:53 – Accessibility and jargonMaking design conversations more approachable, avoiding elitism and intimidating aesthetic culture.9:54 – ClosingInvitation for ideas, and thanks to listeners.Michael Walter is an educator, writer, academic, founder, improviser, and musician. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.
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    11 分
  • Idea Work - Coming soon!

    Idea Work - Coming soon!
    2025/07/06

    Welcome to Idea Work, a podcast about building a career in innovation, design, and strategy. In this short teaser, host Michael Walter shares why this podcast exists, who it’s for, and what you can expect in upcoming episodes.

    If you're curious about how people land innovation roles, build creative careers, and make new ideas work, this one’s for you.

    New episodes launch soon. Hit follow so you don’t miss a thing.
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    2 分