Exploring the Interplay of Design Thinking, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

This comprehensive review deeply explores the symbiotic relationship between design thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Design thinking's human-centred approach to problem-solving has become a key driver of innovation and entrepreneurship. This paper synthesises diverse literature from business, design, and psychology to provide a holistic view of how design thinking influences and combines innovation and entrepreneurship. The review dissects the foundational tenets of design thinking, highlighting its role in fostering creativity, empathy, and user-centred solutions. It then delves into how design thinking catalyses innovation within entrepreneurship contexts, emphasising iterative product and service development processes. The paper explores the symbiosis that contributes to the success and sustainability of new ventures. It examines the entrepreneurial mindset and strategic integration of design thinking in startup ecosystems. The insights from this exploration are practical for practitioners, educators, and policymakers seeking to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. This review presents a roadmap for leveraging design thinking as a transformative force in entrepreneurial ecosystems. It guides future research and practical applications in these interconnected fields.