Systems, Design, and Entrepreneurial Thinking: Comparative Frameworks

Samir Patel and Khanjan Mehta ()
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Samir Patel: The Pennsylvania State University
Khanjan Mehta: The Pennsylvania State University

Systemic Practice and Action Research, 2017, vol. 30, issue 5, No 4, 515-533

Abstract: Abstract The philosophies of design thinking, entrepreneurial thinking, and systems thinking have widespread application in diverse fields. However, due to the inherently abstract rhetoric and lack of commonly accepted frameworks, these philosophies are often considered buzzwords and fads. This article deconstructs the rhetoric and literature from leaders of these three philosophies and identifies their fundamental tenets. A conceptual framework that captures the differences and convergences between design thinking, entrepreneurial thinking, and systems thinking is presented. A series of four case studies derived from diverse settings like healthcare, agriculture, and social networks further illustrate these interconnections. The article argues that the emergent integration of these philosophies, as captured in the fundamental tenets, presents the most compelling opportunities for the practical application of these theoretical frameworks.

Keywords: Design thinking; Systems thinking; Entrepreneurial thinking; Emergence (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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DOI: 10.1007/s11213-016-9404-5

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