Learner Stories: Nabamalika Joardar’s IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme Experience
- Why Nabamalika Chose the IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme
- From Theory to Practical Application: The IITD Learning Experience
- Gaining New Perspectives: The Power of Collaborative Learning
- Key Takeaways From the Programme
- How the Programme is Helping Nabamalika in Her Career
- Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Programme?
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, innovation is essential for organizations striving to stay relevant and competitive. For professionals like Nabamalika Joardar, embracing design thinking has become a pivotal aspect of driving impactful solutions. With a robust background in architecture and urban planning, Nabamalika currently serves as the Head of Communications and Strategy at the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), where she focuses on urban innovation, digital policy, and youth engagement in urban development.
Despite her extensive experience, Nabamalika sought to deepen her understanding of structured innovation methodologies, leading her to enroll in the IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme. In this blog, we explore her journey and how the programme reshaped her approach to problem-solving.
Why Nabamalika Chose the IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme
As a professional, her decision to join the programme stemmed from her desire to enhance her creative thinking while maintaining a strategic focus. She sought an academic experience that offered practical frameworks, real-world applications, and expert insights into design thinking.
“I wanted to expand my knowledge beyond traditional problem-solving techniques and develop a structured approach to innovation,” she recalls. “The IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme stood out because of its rigorous curriculum and the credibility of IIT Delhi.”
The programme’s comprehensive syllabus, encompassing core design thinking principles, business model innovation, and user-centric problem-solving, made it particularly appealing.
From Theory to Practical Application: The IITD Learning Experience
A significant aspect of the programme was its hands-on learning methodology. Unlike traditional courses that focus heavily on theory, this programme encouraged learners to apply design thinking principles in real-world scenarios.
“The faculty members brought invaluable industry expertise, ensuring that we weren’t just learning concepts but actually implementing them in our day-to-day professional challenges,” Nabamalika shares.
The curriculum offered step-by-step guidance, progressing from problem identification to prototyping and testing solutions. Through interactive workshops, peer discussions, and case studies, Nabamalika witnessed firsthand how a structured approach to innovation could drive meaningful change.
“It was fascinating to work on real-world case studies where we had to think outside the box while following a structured framework. This experience significantly enhanced my problem-solving skills,” she adds.
Gaining New Perspectives: The Power of Collaborative Learning
Another standout aspect of the IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme experience was the opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals from diverse industries. The collaborative environment fostered creative exchanges that helped Nabamalika gain fresh perspectives on problem-solving.
“The cohort was incredibly diverse, with professionals from various sectors. This diversity enriched discussions and helped me see challenges from different angles,” she says. “The peer interactions were just as valuable as the coursework.”
By engaging in group activities and design sprints, she was able to test her ideas, refine her approach, and learn from others’ experiences. This collaborative aspect of the programme mimicked real-world innovation processes, where cross-functional teamwork plays a crucial role.
Key Takeaways From the Programme
Reflecting on her journey with the IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme, Nabamalika identifies several key takeaways:
- Empathy is the foundation of innovation – Understanding user needs is crucial for designing solutions that truly address pain points.
- A structured approach enhances creativity – Design thinking provides a framework that fosters innovation without stifling creativity.
- Iteration is key – Prototyping, testing, and refining ideas lead to more impactful solutions.
- Collaboration drives better results – Diverse perspectives and teamwork accelerate innovation.
- Innovation applies to all industries – Regardless of sector, design thinking is a powerful tool for solving complex challenges.
How the Programme is Helping Nabamalika in Her Career
Since completing the programme, Nabamalika has applied her design thinking expertise to her professional projects. The structured methodology has not only improved her problem-solving skills but also positioned her as a valuable asset in her organization.
“I now approach challenges differently. I break them down methodically, ensure user needs are at the center of my solutions, and continuously iterate for improvement,” she says. “The programme has made me a more strategic thinker, and I can see its impact on my work already.”
The skills she gained have provided a competitive edge, making her better equipped to drive innovation within her organization. Whether it’s improving internal processes, developing new products, or enhancing customer experiences, the design thinking principles she learned continue to be a guiding force.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Programme?
For professionals aiming to elevate their problem-solving abilities and foster a culture of innovation, Nabamalika highly recommends the IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme.
“If you’re someone who wants to move beyond conventional thinking, challenge assumptions, and develop creative solutions, this programme is for you,” she emphasizes.
Whether you’re a product manager, business leader, consultant, or entrepreneur, this programme provides a robust framework to tackle challenges in an innovative and structured way.
If Nabamalika’s journey resonates with you, consider embarking on your own IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme experience to unlock new opportunities and drive meaningful impact in your professional life.
Interested in joining the programme? Explore the IITD Design Thinking and Innovation Programme and take the first step towards mastering design thinking!
