Top Design Thinking Examples for Innovation and Success

Design Thinking is a non-linear, iterative process that teams use to understand users, challenge assumptions, and redefine problems in order to create innovative solutions. This approach is particularly effective for tackling ill-defined or complex problems that require creative and user-centered solutions. By following Design Thinking examples, teams can see how this process has been applied successfully across industries. The process is typically broken down into five key phases: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test, which help in developing solutions that are both functional and aligned with user needs.

During the Empathize phase, teams gain a deep understanding of users’ needs and challenges. The Define phase helps to clearly articulate the problem at hand. In the Ideate phase, teams brainstorm potential solutions, followed by the Prototype phase, where ideas are turned into tangible concepts. Finally, in the Test phase, prototypes are tested and refined based on user feedback.

Design Thinking encourages collaboration, experimentation, and continuous learning, making it an ideal methodology for businesses, designers, and innovators to solve real-world problems and drive impactful change.

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Top Design Thinking Examples

Design Thinking has become an essential approach for companies across industries to innovate and stay competitive. By focusing on understanding users, challenging assumptions, and redefining problems, companies can create solutions that are not only functional but also intuitive and engaging. 

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Let’s explore top Design Thinking examples from some of the most successful global brands and how they’ve applied this methodology to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation.

1. Apple’s Product Design: Revolutionizing User-Centered Technology

• Company: Apple
  Apple is a global technology powerhouse known for its high-quality consumer electronics. It has revolutionized multiple industries, from personal computing to entertainment, by integrating design, functionality, and user experience seamlessly. Their flagship products include the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Apple Watch.
• Overview:
  Apple’s design philosophy revolves around creating intuitive, user-centric products that blend advanced technology with simple, elegant design. The company’s focus on the user experience (UX) has made its products stand out in a crowded market. Apple’s unique approach to product design has made it one of the most profitable companies in the world.
• Challenge: 
  Apple faced the challenge of creating products that would not only serve the functional needs of users but also connect emotionally with them. Their products needed to be easy to use, aesthetically pleasing, and cater to diverse customer needs across the globe. As the technology market became increasingly competitive, Apple had to ensure that each new product offered something innovative and different from its competitors.
• Insight & Realization: 
  Apple realized that, in order to achieve innovation, they needed to understand users on a deeper level. This meant focusing on users' pain points, desires, and behavior. Through extensive research and feedback loops, Apple discovered that users weren’t just looking for products that solved problems—they wanted products that created an emotional bond. This realization led Apple to prioritize user-centric design, keeping users' needs and wants at the core of their design process.
• Solution:
  By embracing Design Thinking, Apple created an innovation process that includes five phases: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test. They regularly test products with real users to collect feedback and refine designs. This iterative approach ensures their products, like the iPhone and MacBook, meet user needs while offering simple, intuitive, and aesthetically appealing designs. As a result, Apple is renowned for its exceptional user experience, seamlessly blending functionality with design.

Also Read: Product Designer vs. UX Designer: A Complete Guide to Their Roles and Differences

2. Airbnb’s User Experience Overhaul: Redesigning for Seamless Interaction

• Company: Airbnb
  Airbnb is an online marketplace that connects people looking for accommodations with hosts offering unique places to stay. With millions of listings worldwide, it has transformed the way people travel, offering a personalized and authentic experience.
• Overview:
  Founded in 2008, Airbnb has rapidly grown to become a leader in the travel industry, offering short-term rentals and vacation homes globally. The company’s mission is to help people experience a destination as locals, providing everything from affordable apartments to luxurious villas. Airbnb’s platform also allows hosts to rent out rooms or properties to guests.
• Challenge:
  As Airbnb’s user base grew, the company began to face challenges in making its platform intuitive and user-friendly for both first-time and repeat users. While the platform was functional, the complexity of booking, finding accommodations, and communicating with hosts created barriers for users. Additionally, guests and hosts had varied expectations, leading to a less than optimal experience for many.
• Insight & Realization:
  Airbnb realized that to maintain user satisfaction and drive growth, they needed to simplify their platform and enhance the user experience. They conducted in-depth user research, including surveys and one-on-one interviews, to understand pain points. They found that users were frustrated by complicated navigation, unclear booking processes, and a lack of trust in the platform.
• Solution:
  Leveraging Design Thinking, Airbnb redesigned its website and app to enhance usability with a streamlined booking process, improved navigation, and better communication tools. They introduced a clearer layout, personalized recommendations, and easier interaction between hosts and guests. These changes simplified the booking experience, boosted conversion rates, and built trust through verified reviews, high-quality photos, and enhanced messaging capabilities.

Also Read: How To Become a UI/UX Designer? A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

3. IDEO’s Innovation Process: Pioneering Design Thinking in Action

• Company: IDEO
  IDEO is a globally recognized design and innovation consultancy that has applied Design Thinking to solve complex business, social, and product challenges. With clients like Apple, Ford, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, IDEO is known for pushing the boundaries of creative problem-solving and delivering breakthrough innovations.
• Overview:
  IDEO has been a pioneer in applying Design Thinking to a wide range of industries, from consumer goods to healthcare. The company works with organizations to develop new products, services, and experiences by applying a human-centered approach. IDEO uses prototyping, ideation, and iterative testing to ensure that the final solution addresses both the needs of the users and the business.
• Challenge:
  One of IDEO’s main challenges is tackling highly complex, open-ended problems that have no clear solution. For example, in a project to redesign the shopping cart, IDEO was tasked with improving safety, ease of use, and functionality. However, the problem was multifaceted, requiring innovative solutions that addressed both consumer needs and retail store logistics.
• Insight & Realization:
  IDEO realized that traditional approaches to design would not work for such a complex problem. They needed to focus on a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to generate ideas that were both innovative and practical. They also understood that involving the end-users in the process would provide valuable insights that could inform the design.
• Solution:
  By embracing the five stages of Design Thinking—Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test—IDEO created multiple prototypes and iterated on them based on real-time user feedback. The end result was the first-ever shopping cart redesign, which featured improved safety, maneuverability, and storage, addressing both the consumer’s needs and the retailer’s operational requirements. 

Also Read: Top 7 Product Management Tools Every Product Manager Must Be Having

4. Nike’s Product Customization: Empowering Customers with Design Thinking

• Company: Nike
  Nike is one of the world’s largest and most influential sportswear brands, known for its footwear, apparel, and accessories. With a reputation for innovation, Nike continually strives to deliver products that cater to athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
• Overview:
  Nike has long been at the forefront of sportswear innovation. Their products are designed to meet the performance needs of athletes, combining functionality with style. With their NikeID (now Nike By You) platform, Nike also allows customers to personalize their products, offering a unique, made-to-order experience.
• Challenge:
  Nike faced the challenge of providing customers with a deeper connection to their products through customization. Traditional mass-market designs didn’t meet the growing demand for personalization, and Nike needed a way to enhance customer satisfaction while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
• Insight & Realization:
  Nike realized that athletes and consumers were looking for personalized products that reflected their unique tastes and preferences. To remain competitive and foster brand loyalty, Nike needed to incorporate customization into their design process.
• Solution:
  By applying Design Thinking, Nike developed NikeID, an online platform that allows customers to personalize their shoes and apparel. This service lets customers select colors, materials, and even add their own text to products. By understanding consumer behavior and desires, Nike not only increased customer engagement but also boosted sales. The platform provides an opportunity for customers to create products that fit their personal identity, empowering them to become part of the design process.

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5. Ford’s Mobility Innovation: Designing for the Future of Transportation

• Company: Ford
• Overview: Ford is a global automotive leader, known for revolutionizing the automobile industry. They’ve consistently led in mass production and innovative vehicle design. More recently, Ford has focused on shaping the future of mobility through smarter transportation solutions.
• Challenge: Ford faced the challenge of addressing future transportation needs in increasingly congested cities while maintaining their commitment to sustainability and safety. They needed to rethink how urban mobility could be improved and how their vehicles could adapt to these changes.
• Insight & Realization: Ford realized that simply improving traditional vehicles wouldn't suffice. They needed to look beyond cars and consider other transportation models, including car-sharing, ride-hailing, and even autonomous vehicles. User feedback revealed that urban consumers valued convenience, sustainability, and efficiency above all else.
• Solution: Ford applied Design Thinking to create solutions like the FordPass app, which allows users to locate and reserve parking spaces, pay for gas, and even access shared vehicles. By empathizing with users' needs and challenges, Ford embraced a broader definition of transportation and innovated with solutions that go beyond just cars, transforming the urban mobility experience.

Also Read: The Importance of Skill Development: Techniques, Benefits, and Trends for 2026

6. Coca-Cola’s Vending Machine Redesign: Innovating Consumer Interactions

• Company: Coca-Cola
• Overview: Coca-Cola is one of the most recognized global beverage brands, known for its wide array of soft drinks, juices, and bottled waters. Coca-Cola continually innovates in product development, marketing, and distribution.
• Challenge: Coca-Cola's vending machines had become outdated, with consumers facing frustration in selecting products, paying, and navigating the interface. They needed to redesign their machines to meet modern expectations and provide a more interactive, seamless experience.
• Insight & Realization: Coca-Cola realized that the user experience (UX) with their vending machines was increasingly cumbersome. They recognized the need for a more interactive, personalized, and easy-to-use interface to improve customer satisfaction and drive sales.
• Solution: By applying Design Thinking principles, Coca-Cola completely redesigned their vending machines. Features included touchscreen displays, multiple payment options, and even location-based customization, where users could find their favorite products based on location or preferences. These changes significantly enhanced user engagement and led to higher sales.

Also Read: 10 Entrepreneurial Skills Every Professional Must Develop

7. Starbucks’ Digital Experience: Transforming Coffee Culture with Technology

• Company: Starbucks
• Overview: Starbucks is a global coffeehouse chain, renowned for its premium coffee and commitment to delivering a consistent and high-quality customer experience. Starbucks has also embraced technology to innovate the customer experience.
• Challenge: Starbucks needed to enhance the digital experience for its customers, providing them with greater convenience and rewards while maintaining its core values of personalization and customer care.
• Insight & Realization: Starbucks realized that mobile technology could serve as a critical tool to enhance the customer experience. They understood that many customers wanted to order ahead, pay, and collect rewards without the hassle of waiting in line.
• Solution: Using Design Thinking, Starbucks developed a mobile app that enabled customers to pre-order their drinks, pay via the app, and earn loyalty rewards. The app also offered personalized recommendations based on previous orders. By integrating mobile-first design and personalization, Starbucks revolutionized how customers interact with the brand, increasing convenience and strengthening customer loyalty.

Also Read: Top 30 New Technology Trends in 2026: Exploring the Future

8. Google’s Search Interface Evolution: Prioritizing Simplicity and Usability

• Company: Google
• Overview: Google is the world’s leading search engine, providing users with the ability to find information across the web. Google has continually evolved its platform to improve search accuracy, speed, and usability.
• Challenge: As the internet grew, Google’s challenge was to maintain the simplicity and usability of its search interface while delivering increasingly complex and tailored search results. The goal was to provide users with relevant and useful information quickly without overwhelming them.
• Insight & Realization: Google realized that users valued simplicity and speed above all else. They needed to focus on minimizing distractions and creating an intuitive interface that helped users find answers in the least amount of time possible.
• Solution: By applying Design Thinking, Google iteratively tested and refined their search interface. They streamlined their design to eliminate unnecessary features and kept the focus on the core function of search. Google also improved its search algorithms to provide more accurate and contextually relevant results. 

9. Unilever’s Sustainable Packaging Design: Leading with Eco-Innovation

• Company: Unilever
• Overview: Unilever is one of the largest consumer goods companies globally, known for products like Dove, Hellmann's, and Lipton. The company is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, with a growing focus on environmental issues.
• Challenge: Unilever faced increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, especially regarding plastic waste. The company needed to innovate packaging solutions that were both functional and sustainable, without compromising product quality or customer appeal.
• Insight & Realization: Unilever realized that consumers were increasingly concerned with the environmental impact of the products they buy. By conducting research, they discovered that eco-friendly packaging was a key concern for many of their customers, particularly those who were environmentally conscious.
• Solution: Using Design Thinking, Unilever redesigned the packaging of many of its products to use less plastic and incorporate more sustainable materials. The company also embraced innovations like refillable packaging and minimized product waste, aligning their brand with the growing global focus on sustainability. 

Also Read: What are the 10 Top Products of Technology?

10. Tesla’s Electric Vehicle Design: Innovating for Sustainability and Performance

• Company: Tesla
• Overview: Tesla is a leader in electric vehicles (EVs), pushing the boundaries of sustainable technology while maintaining high performance and design standards. The company has revolutionized the automotive industry with its electric cars, solar products, and energy solutions.
• Challenge: Tesla’s challenge was to create an electric vehicle that not only had the performance and design quality of traditional gasoline-powered cars but also addressed environmental concerns by offering a viable alternative to fossil fuel-driven vehicles.
• Insight & Realization: Tesla realized that in order to make electric vehicles mainstream, they had to address several pain points: limited driving range, long charging times, and a perception that EVs were not as reliable or powerful as gasoline-powered vehicles. They also needed to offer a sleek, modern design that would appeal to car enthusiasts and environmentally-conscious consumers alike.
• Solution: Through Design Thinking, Tesla created a series of innovative electric vehicles that combined high performance, elegant design, and cutting-edge technology. They focused on developing longer-lasting batteries, faster charging systems, and an ultra-modern aesthetic. The result was vehicles like the Model S, Model X, and Model 3, which have become synonymous with high-end electric vehicles. 

Also Read: How to Strategically Launch Your Brand

11. Microsoft’s Adaptive Controller: Empowering Gamers with Disabilities

• Company: Microsoft
• Overview: Microsoft is a multinational technology company, known for its software products like Windows and Microsoft Office, as well as its gaming consoles like the Xbox.
• Challenge: Microsoft sought to create an inclusive gaming experience for all users, particularly for gamers with disabilities who found traditional game controllers challenging to use.
• Insight & Realization: Microsoft realized that the gaming community included individuals with varying physical abilities, and that accessibility should be prioritized to ensure no one was excluded from the gaming experience.
• Solution: Applying Design Thinking, Microsoft created the Xbox Adaptive Controller—a customizable gaming controller designed for people with limited mobility. It features large programmable buttons, ports for additional accessories, and compatibility with other devices, allowing users to tailor the controller to their specific needs. This inclusive design has made gaming more accessible for people with disabilities, reflecting Microsoft’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

Also Read: Design Thinking – 6 Lessons in Innovation and Marketing Excellence

How upGrad Can Help You Master Design Thinking and Innovation

upGrad offers comprehensive courses that equip professionals with the skills needed to apply Design Thinking in real-world scenarios. Whether you're looking to improve product design, enhance user experience, or drive innovation within your organization, upGrad’s programs provide you with the tools, methodologies, and hands-on experience necessary to excel.

Their MBA programs with a focus on Design Thinking and Innovation Management ensure that you get a well-rounded education, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications. You'll learn from top industry leaders, gain insights into the latest trends, and apply your skills through real-world case studies.

By enrolling in upGrad’s programs, you’ll be able to:

• Learn Design Thinking principles from expert instructors.
• Gain practical experience by working on industry-relevant projects.
• Master problem-solving techniques to drive innovation in your organization.
• Leverage user-centered design to create products and services that truly resonate with consumers.

Whether you're a business leader or a product designer, upGrad’s programs help you stay ahead in an ever-evolving business landscape.

For more details, check out upGrad's Design Thinking and Innovation program.

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