The Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) staff and interns had the privilege of attending the transformative Human-Centered Innovation Workshop organized by the Ateneo Business Resource Center in collaboration with the TEMASEK Foundation and Singapore Polytechnic University. From June 6th to 9th, 2023, they embarked on an exciting journey that equipped them with invaluable knowledge and skills in Design Thinking and User Experience (UX). This workshop not only broadened their horizons but also empowered them to approach innovation with a human-centric mindset.
Photo: AIPO staff and interns together with BS Restaurant Entrepreneurship students practicing the Design Thinking method
An Inspiring Learning Environment:
The Human Centered Innovation Workshop provided the attendees with an inspiring learning environment where creativity, collaboration, and empathy were nurtured. They were exposed to a wealth of theories, frameworks, and practical tools that enabled them to delve deep into understanding human needs, behaviors, and aspirations. The facilitators, consisting of industry experts, design professionals, and academic scholars, ignited their curiosity and challenged their thinking throughout the program.
Photo: the AIPO team together with BS Restaurant Entrepreneurship students presenting their prototype output to workshop facilitators from Singapore
Hands-on Application and Iterative Feedback:
One of the workshop's highlights was the emphasis on hands-on application. The attendees were encouraged to work in teams, pooling their diverse perspectives and skills to tackle various problem-solving exercises. Through brainstorming sessions, prototyping exercises, and iterative feedback loops, they learned to generate innovative solutions that truly addressed complex challenges. This experiential approach allowed them to put their newly acquired knowledge into practice and refine their problem-solving skills.
Application of Design Thinking in Intellectual Property:
The workshop provided the teams with valuable insights into how Design Thinking can be applied in the context of intellectual property. They learned how a human-centered approach can enhance the user experience surrounding intellectual property rights and services. By understanding the needs and challenges of users in the intellectual property field, they gained a deeper understanding of how to develop innovative solutions and improve the overall user experience.
Exposure to User Experience Principles:
The workshop also focused on User Experience (UX) principles, which proved to be of great importance to the attendees. They explored the significance of creating seamless and intuitive user interactions across digital platforms and physical environments. Through learning about usability testing, user research techniques, and information architecture, they gained a better understanding of how to design products and services that align with user expectations and preferences. The emphasis on continuous improvement and iteration based on user feedback resonated strongly with the team, as they recognized the importance of continually enhancing the intellectual property experience for users.
Building a Network and Nurturing Collaborations:
Beyond the knowledge gained and skills acquired, the workshop fostered a vibrant community of like-minded individuals passionate about human-centered innovation. The attendees had the opportunity to connect with peers, facilitators, and industry professionals, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the workshop's duration. This network will serve as a valuable resource for ongoing collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development, enabling AIPO to continue its journey of human-centered innovation both within and outside the field of intellectual property.
Photo: Workshop participants with the Ateneo John Gokongwei School of Management Dean, Dr. Roberto Galang
AIPO's experience at the Human-Centered Innovation Workshop was truly transformative. The workshop's emphasis on hands-on application, iterative feedback, and the development of a supportive network will undoubtedly continue to drive their efforts to create user-centric solutions to solve problems and contribute to society.
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Did you know that the AIPO also conducts Design Thinking workshops geared for student groups, startups, and innovators? If you are interested in learning more about it, visit www.aipo.ateneo.edu/designthinking