HUMN 450: Design Thinking: Use design thinking to offer methods and insights into what might improve that function.

Keep in mind that design thinking is applied to bothobjectsandprocesses. Objectsandprocessesare created with the intention of fulfilling a human 'function.' So, for example, the object of a coffee cup has a 'function' of quenching thirst/providing nutrition, while theprocessof filling in of your income tax has a 'function' of transferring private property to the public (government) realm.

Function: Create a solution to loneliness. It has been said that one of the greatest mental health challenges in the 21st century is loneliness. Look at how design thinking might lead to methods and systems that could be used to remedy this society-wide problem. The selected approach to the chosen 'function' then becomes one of applying design thinking, seeking non-linear human-centric solutions to the problems of fulfilling the function. The report can include many of the factors toolboxes of design thinking. A list of approaches might include the following:

1. Observe/define the current situation and describe it.
2. Suggest trends that might lead to this function is more important in the future, which can include environmental factors affecting the function. This section is akin to the trend analysis assignment. With this section, you can use the strategies for identifying trends discussed in class.

Describe the stakeholders. This section is akin to the stakeholder assignment.

Describe who the stakeholders are.

Describe a scenario or horizon scanning where the function is being addressed.

1. You are free to address the question and organize your response in any way you wish, but do try to create a systematic approach, which will require an introduction (stating the issue/thesis), a conclusion, and clearly-defined sections.