From Architect to Innovator: Anagha Shirdade’s Design Thinking Journey

Design is not just a creative endeavor in the modern workplace. Good design or design thinking as a skill set is greatly valued by businesses. Design thinking can help leaders think out-of-the-box, facilitate problem-solving, and lead to business growth. Thus, professionals from marketing, sales, technology, business and various other backgrounds are now keen on learning design thinking. One such professional is Anagha Shirdade, a seasoned designer and architect with over two decades of experience. Her Design Thinking Programme Review for IITD’s Design Thinking and Innovation programme is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to learn and grow.
Anagha’s story is one of inspiration and transformation. With a career spanning over two decades, she decided to further enhance her skills and knowledge in user-centric design. Her quest for learning led her to this programme, a decision she describes as pivotal in her personal and professional evolution.
Why Anagha Choose IIT Delhi to Upskill in Design Thinking
“What drew me to joining the IIT design thinking course were two main aspects,” Anagha shares in her design thinking programme review. “The prestige associated with IIT Delhi and the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and industry experts.” These factors, combined with the course’s promise to deepen her understanding of user-centric design, made it an irresistible opportunity.
Also, Anagha’s design philosophy is deeply influenced by Steve Jobs’ famous quote, “Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” This philosophy aligns perfectly with the user-centric approach taught in the Design Thinking and Innovation Programme at IITD, making it the perfect choice for her.

IITD Design Thinking Programme Review: Anagha’s Key Takeaways
A Journey of Joy and Discovery
In her Design Thinking Programme Review, Anagha describes her experience in the DTI programme as “fun, exciting, and powerful.” The course’s interactive nature, coupled with the guidance of amazing mentors and Professor Vijay’s exceptional leadership, created a learning environment that was both engaging and enriching.
“Professor Vijay’s commitment to making this journey joyful, encouraging free thinking, and guiding each individual ensured that each participant succeeded in their own unique way,” Anagha recalls. This approach not only fostered a sense of community but also allowed each participant to explore and develop their unique potential.
A Game Changer for Perspective
The DTI programme exceeded Anagha’s expectations in terms of the depth of treatment of each topic. She found the learning experience to be surprising and transformative. “By the end of the programme, I realized that the DTI course was a total game changer on how I can perceive, connect to, and respond joyously to the ever-evolving and multidimensional ecosystem that unfolds in our lives,” she says.
Arguably, this was Anagha’s biggest takeaway.
Igniting the Entrepreneurial Spark

One of the most significant outcomes of the programme was the ignition of the entrepreneurial spark within Anagha. The course not only enriched her skills but also empowered her to think creatively and innovatively about design challenges.
Anagha’s journey from an experienced architect to an innovator is a powerful example of how continuous learning and a growth mindset can lead to significant personal and professional transformation. Her story is an inspiration to professionals in all fields, demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning and the pursuit of excellence.
Looking Ahead
As Anagha looks forward, she carries with her the lessons learned and the connections made during her time at IIT Delhi. She is eager to apply her newfound knowledge and skills to her work, continuing to innovate and inspire in the field of design.
Anagha’s story is a compelling reminder of the transformative power of education and the importance of continuous learning. Her journey from an architect to an innovator is an inspiration to us all.
In conclusion, Anagha Shirdade’s experience in the Design Thinking and Innovation programme at IIT Delhi is a powerful testament to the transformative potential of continuous learning. Her journey from an experienced architect to an innovator is an inspiration to professionals in all fields, demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning and the pursuit of excellence.
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