Empowering MSMEs through Design Thinking involves leveraging this problem-solving and innovative methodology to address challenges and enhance business processes. Design Thinking is a human-centered approach that encourages creativity, collaboration, and empathy. In summary, Design Thinking can be a powerful tool for MSMEs to innovate, enhance customer satisfaction, streamline processes, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing business landscape. By placing the needs of customers and end-users at the center of their strategies, MSMEs can create sustainable and impactful solutions.

Learning Objective

Empower MSMEs with practical Design Thinking tools to foster innovation, problem-solving, and business growth.

Outline

1. Introduction (15 mins)

• Welcome and Icebreaker: Set a positive and engaging tone.
• Overview of Design Thinking: Brief explanation and its relevance for MSMEs.

2. Understanding MSME Challenges (30 mins)

• Interactive Polls: Collect real-time data on participants' challenges.
• Group Discussions: Breakout rooms for participants to share experiences.

3. Design Thinking Fundamentals (45 mins)

• Guided Presentation: Core principles and stages of Design Thinking.
• Case Study: Analyze a successful MSME case using Design Thinking.

4. Ideation Session (60 mins)

• Virtual Whiteboard: Collaborative brainstorming on specific MSME challenges.
• Mentimeter or Polls: Vote on the most promising ideas.

5. Prototyping and Storyboarding (45 mins)

• Hands-on Activity: Create a simple prototype using available online tools.
• Storyboard Presentation: Participants showcase their solutions. You 

6. User Testing Simulation (30 mins)

• Breakout Groups: Simulate user testing scenarios for peer feedback.
• Q&A: Address common challenges and concerns.

7. Integrating Design Thinking into MSMEs (30 mins)

• Group Discussion: Strategies for implementing Design Thinking in daily operations.
• Resource Sharing: Provide a list of tools and resources.

8. Reflection and Action Planning (15 mins)

• Individual Reflection: Participants jot down key takeaways.
• Action Planning: Set concrete steps to apply Design Thinking in their businesses.

9. Closing and Networking (15 mins)

• Recap and Virtual Networking: Summarize key learnings and express gratitude. Optional time for participants to connect.

Materials

• Zoom Breakout Rooms
• Miro or MURAL for virtual whiteboarding
• Mentimeter or Slido for interactive polls
• Collaboration Tools: Google Docs for prototyping

Methodology

The workshop will consist of lectures, exercises, and application back on the job.