The application of design thinking : case study i-room BHEA

This project explores the application of Innovation Tools call as a “Design Thinking” in producing the i-ROOM BHEA as one of innovation project for Bahagian Hal Ehwal Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kedah. Design Thinking has emerged as a human-centered and iterative methodology for effective problem-solving across diverse fields, including business, education, and community development. It emphasizes empathy, creativity, and collaboration in generating innovative solutions that align with user needs. The process typically follows five key stages: (1) Empathize, which explores users’ experiences and contexts through interviews, observations, and journey mapping; (2) Define, where insights are synthesized into clear problem statements; (3) Ideate, which encourages creative idea generation through brainstorming, and mind mapping techniques; (4) Prototype, involving the development of tangible models such as sketches or digital mock-ups; and (5) Test, which evaluates prototypes through user feedback and usability assessments. Importantly, the process is iterative, with each stage informing the next to refine and improve potential solutions. By shifting from linear problem-solving approaches to a cyclical, user-focused model, Design Thinking enhances creativity, mitigates risks through early testing, and fosters solutions that are both practical and sustainable. Its adoption provides organizations and educators with a structured yet flexible framework to address complex challenges effectively, yet can transform the Bahagian Hal Ehwal Akademik procedure more engaging, inclusive and unique.