Research on design thinking workshop based on protocol analysis: A case study of library usage scenarios

Design thinking has a broad range of applications beyond the design field, such as in libraries. However, significant differences remain between designers and non-designers in using design thinking tools for innovation. This study investigated these distinctions by examining the design thinking process. In a design thinking workshop focused on library usage, we recruited three groups of participants consisting of both designers and non-designers, who were assigned the same tasks and conducted similar activities. Through protocol analysis, significant cognitive differences between designers and non-designers in the design thinking process were found to involve information intention, long-term memory, working memory, creative thinking, and externalization. We concluded that the involvement of a designer is optimal for non-designers when using design thinking for innovation, particularly during the problem-framing stage. Additionally, we summarized the challenges faced by non-designers in utilizing design thinking for innovation and provided recommendations for improving design thinking workshops, including considerations for time management and staff allocation.