Mobile Applications

In a fast-changing world, it’s essential to create solutions people truly need. Design Thinking is a methodology that focuses on real user needs, not just technical specs or business goals. Unlike traditional approaches, it starts with empathy and understanding of the user.
This approach is widely used in IT, design, education, and public services. In the Czech Republic, startups, creative agencies, and major companies like Škoda Auto and Avast apply it actively. Let’s explore what makes Design Thinking effective and how it works.

What Is Design Thinking?

Design Thinking is more than a toolkit — it’s a mindset centered on empathy. It aims to solve real user problems instead of simply fulfilling requirements. Developed at Stanford and popularized by IDEO, it’s now used by tech giants like Google, Apple, and IBM. In the Czech Republic, it’s taught at universities such as ČVUT and VŠE and applied in innovation projects.
A key principle is iteration: solutions are tested and improved continuously based on user feedback. This reduces risk and speeds up development.

The 5 Stages of Design Thinking

Though flexible, the process typically follows five stages:
1. Empathize: Understand the User
Research goes beyond data — it’s about discovering user habits, fears, and motivations. In the Czech Republic, interviews and observations are common methods. Czech users value practicality and may be skeptical about new tech, so cultural context matters.
2. Define: Identify the Core Problem
Once insights are gathered, the next step is to define the key challenge. It’s not enough to say “the app is inconvenient” — you must understand why. In the Czech market, poor language localization is a common issue. Automatic translations often miss cultural nuances, irritating users.
3. Ideate: Generate Creative Solutions
Teams brainstorm as many ideas as possible, even unusual ones. Czech companies often use structured methods like “Six Thinking Hats” and cross-functional workshops. Creativity here is approached rationally, leading to practical, well-considered solutions.
4. Prototype: Visualize the Idea
A simplified version of the product is created quickly — whether on paper or using tools like Figma. Low-cost prototyping is common in Czech startups looking to minimize early expenses. Even basic mockups can reveal valuable insights.
5. Test: Validate with Real Users
Prototypes are tested with users, and feedback is used to refine the product. Czech users are known for their directness, which helps teams make meaningful improvements. Still, it’s crucial to filter emotional reactions from actionable feedback.

Design Thinking in the Czech Republic

Design Thinking is not limited to IT. Czech companies across sectors benefit from it:
Škoda Auto uses it to design car infotainment systems, testing with Czech and European users.
ČSOB and Komerční banka apply it to improve digital banking for various age groups.
Prague’s municipality applied it to enhance city navigation and tourist services, creating clear signs and helpful transport apps.
In education, universities like ČVUT include it in innovation courses, and hubs like Pražský kreativní kampus offer workshops for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Why It Matters

Some view Design Thinking as a buzzword, but its advantages are real:
Risk Reduction — Products are based on real needs, especially useful in the conservative Czech market.
Efficiency — Iterative testing catches issues early, saving time and money.
Creativity — Encourages innovative thinking, vital for competing globally.
For Czech SMEs aiming to grow internationally, Design Thinking is a powerful tool to build user-friendly, competitive products.

How to Start

To adopt Design Thinking, you don’t need a big budget. Start with:
Customer interviews to understand needs. In-person conversations work well in the Czech market.
Idea workshops with your team. A facilitator can help guide the process.
Simple prototypes, even paper-based, to test early concepts. Tools like Figma are great for digital drafts.
In Prague and Brno, organizations like Impact Hub and universities offer accessible training and events for businesses wanting to learn Design Thinking.

Conclusion

Design Thinking places people at the center of development. In the Czech Republic, it’s already embraced by tech firms, banks, and even public services. Local consumers value practicality, quality, and attention to detail — all things this methodology supports.
As Czech companies continue to compete globally, those using Design Thinking today are gaining a clear advantage. The best solutions come from a deep understanding of what users truly need.