Top 5 Design Thinking Books for Beginners
Hello, lovely early readers’ community!
I often get asked which book I would recommend for anyone who wants to get started with design thinking (in HR). The short answer is that there is not just ONE book.
As part of writing my own tome on the topic, I’ve poured over hundreds of books, podcasts, and scientific articles. I can’t wait for you to get your hands on these incredible references - hopefully soon!
In the meantime, here are my Top 5 book recommendations for beginners:
1️⃣ The Power of Moments by Chip Heath & Dan Heath. It's a good grounding in some of the key psychological concepts that underpin employee experience design.
2️⃣ Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley & David Kelley. As "non-designers" we tend to lack the confidence to engage in design thinking which is what this book tackles.
3️⃣ Sprint by Jake Knapp. This book outlines a step-by-step process for how to run a 5-day design sprint.
4️⃣ Designing for Growth by Jeanne Lietdka & Tim Ogilvie. In this book, the authors explain the why and the what of design thinking and how it can be applied in a business context.
5️⃣ Creative Acts for Curious People by Sarah Stein Greenberg. This tome holds a curated collection of lovingly illustrated design thinking activities.
Have you read any of these? Are there others you would you recommend?
On we go on the writer’s journey…