Design thinking is a five step process which could be applied to any project. The first step is empathy for the user. After that the problem is defined. It is then ideated. A prototype is created. Last, the whole thing is tested. This is what is done subconsciously.

In the field of software, the first step is to understand how the customer interacts with the app, software or service. This understanding will lead to empathy — understanding user’s point of view. Problems will be anticipated before they arise. In empathy, one puts oneself in the shoes of another person.

Design thinking takes you away from linear thinking, and provides an alternative way of dealing with the problem. One can also think ahead of customers. One can simulate the customer’s or user’s journey and spot the points of friction.