Applied Design Thinking for Problem Solving - A Tool Kit for Business Practitioners and Managers

“Applied Design Thinking for Problem Solving" is a ground breaking book that aims to redefine the concept of value in the industry. With over five decades of experience in the field of Value Analysis and Value Engineering, the author offers unique insights into how organizations can maximize their profits and create products and services that truly resonate with customers.             In this book, the author delves into the misconceptions surrounding the term "value" and sets out to clarify its true meaning. Drawing from his extensive experience working with industrial and service organizations in India and abroad, the author explores the relationship between cost, price, and the worth of a product or service. He highlights the importance of design thinking in determining whether a product or service is worth the price a customer is willing to pay.            Through examples and case studies, the author demonstrates how customers make decisions based on the worth and cost of a product. He explains how features such as functionality, performance, quality, and appeal influence a customer's perception of value. Additionally, the author introduces the concept of Value Engineering, a systematic approach to maximizing value, and how it can be integrated into organizational processes.             The book also traces the evolution of Value Analysis and Value Engineering, shedding light on their emergence in the post-war period and their growing popularity in the Indian industry over the past five decades. With his vast experience working with various organizations across different sectors, the author shares valuable insights into the applications of these techniques in materials, processes, labor, equipment, energy, and systems.             Moreover, the author addresses the need for clear demarcation between Design Thinking and Value Engineering, aiming to reduce subjectivity and enhance objectivity in their application. He emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and involvement of diverse stakeholders in the development and implementation of new concepts.          "Applied Design Thinking for Problem Solving" is a comprehensive guide for organizations looking to enhance their value proposition and maximize their productivity. It provides practical strategies, real-world examples, and actionable insights that can revolutionize the way businesses approach value creation. This book is a must-read for professionals, executives, engineers, and anyone interested in driving innovation and improving organizational performance. Contents: 1.    Applied Design Thinking for Productivity2.    System Approach for Problem Solving3.    Organising Design Thinking & VAVE Function4.    Case Studies About the Author: Kumandari Ranga Chari, a graduate in Mechanical Engineering followed by a PG in Industrial Engineering and a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers (India), has spent the first four decades of his career providing Productivity enhancement services to a large spectrum of industry sectors in India and abroad. He developed a special liking for applied Value Engineering and Design Thinking. Subsequent upon this, he developed a liking for IT, as he found it useful to enrich his consulting and advisory function. With a view to share his experiences and knowledge with the future managers, joined Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), a Business School, as a Professor of Operations Management. During his tenure of about 14 years at the school, he was instrumental in introducing new courses in Productivity Management and Energy Management. His research interests spanned over Products development from bulk industrial wastes, Energy and Environment, Sustainability, Climate control and Manufacturing Technology.          His first book was published in 1992, titled “Value Engineering” and a video training module on the same subject. He has been invited by UNEP and APO as a subject expert and panelist on many International events.