ACTIVITY 1
WORKSHEET REPORT
SUBMITTED BY
SHARU NETHRA R [ RA2411003010016]
GROUP 9
UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF
DR.S.PADMINI
21DCS201P – DESIGN THINKING AND METHODOLOGY
DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
SCHOOL OF COMPUTING
SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
KATTANKULATHUR
JANUARY 2026
1. Introduction
Design thinking is a modern problem-solving approach that focuses on understanding the
needs of users and developing innovative, practical, and human-centered solutions. Instead of
directly jumping to a solution, design thinking encourages observing the problem deeply,
empathizing with users, generating multiple ideas, and testing solutions before finalizing
them.
This approach is widely used in engineering, business, healthcare, education, and technology
because it helps create products and services that are more effective and user-friendly. Design
thinking promotes creativity, experimentation, and continuous improvement, making it highly
relevant in today’s fast-changing world.
This report is prepared as part of Activity 1 to understand the fundamentals of design
thinking through everyday examples, comparisons between thinking approaches, and real-life
applications such as product design, technology, sustainability, and personal development.
2. Objectives
The main objectives of this activity are:
•
To understand the concept of good design and why it is important in daily life
•
To differentiate between traditional thinking and design thinking approaches
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To analyze how design influences our choice of everyday products
•
To study examples of designs that are technically possible but not yet commercially
viable
•
To understand real-world challenges in implementing sustainable technologies like
solar energy
•
To learn how mystery, heuristics, and algorithms are used in product design
•
To improve analytical, creative, and problem-solving skills
3. Examples of Good Design
A good design is one that effectively solves a problem, is easy to use, visually appealing, and
long-lasting. Good design always focuses on the user and the purpose of the product. The
following are examples of good design found in different fields:
1. Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is a perfect example of architectural excellence. Its symmetry,
balanced structure, and detailed craftsmanship show how beauty and engineering can
be combined. The materials used have made it strong and durable for centuries.
2. Car
A car is designed for comfort, safety, and performance. The placement of steering,
pedals, and controls makes driving easy and safe. Modern cars also include advanced
features like airbags and sensors, showing continuous improvement in design.
3. Windmill
A windmill is a simple yet powerful design that converts wind energy into electricity.
It supports renewable energy and reduces environmental pollution. The design is
efficient and sustainable.
4. Dining Table
A dining table is a daily-use product designed for stability and comfort. Its height,
size, and structure are carefully designed to allow people to eat comfortably together.
5. Rocket
A rocket is one of the most advanced engineering designs. It is built to withstand
extreme heat, pressure, and speed while carrying payloads into space. Precision and
safety are key factors in its design.
4. Differences Between Traditional Thinking and Design Thinking
Traditional thinking and design thinking differ in the way problems are approached and
solved.
Traditional Thinking
Design Thinking
Follows a fixed step-by-step method
Follows a flexible and iterative process
Focuses on finding one correct solution
Encourages multiple innovative solutions
Problem-focused
User-focused
Limited creativity
Highly creative and experimental
Solutions are final
Solutions are tested and improved
Design thinking allows continuous improvement and encourages innovation, making it more
suitable for solving complex real-world problems.
5. Cell Phone Brand and Design Influence
The brand of my cell phone is Samsung, and I chose it because it is reliable, durable, and
easy to use. Samsung phones are known for good performance, long battery life, and strong
build quality, which makes them suitable for everyday use.
Design also played an important role in my decision. The slim body, attractive color, smooth
edges, and camera layout make the phone comfortable to hold and visually appealing. A good
design improves user experience and increases satisfaction, which is why design matters in
product selection.
6. Design That Is Desirable and Feasible but Not Yet Viable
A dirt-resistant T-shirt is an example of a design that is desirable and feasible but not yet
commercially viable. This type of fabric uses special coating or nanotechnology that prevents
stains and dirt from sticking, making it very useful for daily wear.
The technology already exists, and many people would want such a product because it
reduces washing and saves water. However, the production cost is high, making the T-shirt
expensive for the average consumer. Due to limited affordability and market demand, it has
not yet become a common product.
7. Why Solar Technology Has Not Yet Come of Age in India (Tamil Nadu
Scenario)
Tamil Nadu has high solar energy potential because it receives sunlight for most of the year.
Many solar parks and rooftop solar projects have already been installed. However, solar
energy has not yet fully replaced conventional electricity.
One major reason is the high installation cost. A basic household solar system can cost
between ₹1.5 to 3 lakhs, which many families cannot afford. Another major issue is battery
storage. Solar energy is produced only during the day, and storing it for night use requires
expensive batteries that also need replacement every few years.
During the monsoon season, power generation decreases due to cloud cover. Also, in cities
like Chennai, many people live in apartments where rooftop space is limited. These
challenges make solar energy less convenient and affordable for widespread adoption.
8. Approach to Consistently Scoring High Grades
Consistent academic performance requires discipline, planning, and regular effort. I followed
a systematic study routine instead of studying only during exams. Understanding concepts,
revising regularly, practicing question papers, and clearing doubts early helped me perform
well.
Time management and self-discipline played an important role in maintaining consistency in
my academic performance.
9. Mystery, Heuristics, and Algorithms Behind an Electric Toothbrush
An electric toothbrush is a good example of how design thinking is applied in everyday
products.
•
Mystery: Although it looks simple, it contains sensors, motors, and electronic circuits
that make brushing more effective.
•
Heuristics: It has a built-in timer and pressure control to guide users to brush
correctly without damaging their teeth.
•
Algorithm: The toothbrush follows a sequence of steps such as starting vibration,
adjusting motion based on pressure, and automatically stopping after a fixed time.
These features help users maintain good oral hygiene easily and efficiently.
10. Conclusion
This activity helped me understand how design thinking can be applied to everyday products
and large-scale systems. It showed the importance of focusing on user needs, creativity,
feasibility, and continuous improvement while designing solutions. Overall, this activity
improved my understanding of how thoughtful design can solve real-world problems
effectively.