Level: Beginner to Advanced

Mode: Online, Hybrid, or In-person

Duration: 10 months

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Master the design thinking process from problem identification to solution implementation.
• Develop empathy and user-centered design strategies.
• Lead innovation initiatives within teams and across organizations.
• Foster creativity and collaboration in problem-solving and innovation projects.
• Apply design thinking methodologies to real-world business challenges.
• Cultivate leadership skills to guide teams in an innovative and creative direction.

Who Should Enroll:

• Recent Graduates: Get a head start in becoming an innovation leader in your career.
• Professionals: Learn how to apply design thinking to your current role to solve complex business problems.
• Executives: Gain leadership skills to foster a culture of innovation and creativity within your organization.

Course Structure:

The course is divided into core modules designed to help learners master each step of the design thinking process and leadership strategies for innovation.

Core Modules:

• KM-01: Introduction to Design Thinking
  • Overview of design thinking principles and methodologies.
  • Assessment: Apply design thinking to a case study.
• KM-02: Empathy and Problem Definition
  • Learn to use empathy to understand user needs and challenges.
  • Practical: Conduct interviews and user research.
• KM-03: Ideation and Brainstorming Techniques
  • Master creative brainstorming and ideation techniques.
  • Practical: Facilitate a brainstorming session for real-world problems.
• KM-04: Prototyping and Testing
  • Develop rapid prototypes and test solutions in a low-cost environment.
  • Practical: Create and test a prototype.
• KM-05: Scaling Innovation and Implementation
  • Learn how to scale and implement successful design thinking projects.
  • Assessment: Create an implementation plan for an innovative idea.
• KM-06: Innovation Leadership
  • Develop leadership skills to guide innovation teams and manage change.
  • Assessment: Lead a team innovation project.
• PM-12: Final Integrated Summative Assessment
  • Comprehensive final assessment integrating all skills learned.
  • Practical: Manage a design thinking project from start to finish.

Course Delivery:

Learning Modes:

1. Online Mode: Self-paced learning with virtual weekly check-ins and online discussions.
2. Hybrid Mode: A blend of online learning and in-person workshops for hands-on learning.
3. In-Person: Traditional classroom learning with direct access to instructors.

Estimated Level:

• Beginner: For those new to the concepts of design thinking and innovation leadership, with little to no experience in related fields.
• Intermediate: For learners with some background in project management, creative problem-solving, or business strategy, but limited direct experience in design thinking.
• Advanced: For professionals and leaders who have experience applying design thinking principles in their industry and are looking to deepen their expertise and lead innovation initiatives effectively.

Support:

• Weekly Facilitator Support: Virtual office hours for assignment assistance and guidance.
• Dedicated Course Advisor: Personalized guidance to help learners stay on track and succeed.
• Community Forum: Engage with peers, share insights, and collaborate on projects.

Certification:

Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a QCTO-aligned Design Thinking & Innovation Leadership Certificate recognized across industries as a benchmark of innovation leadership.

Pricing:

• Course Fee: R15,000
• Registration Fee: R1,275 (Non-refundable)