Strategic Design Capability in Companies - A framework for strengthening organizational effectiveness by means of strategic design capability
Jan-Erik Baars succesfully defended his thesis at the department of Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences on June 11th
Jan-Erik about his research: "My doctoral project defined the organizational capability companies require to utilize design optimally (which focuses on 鈥渇orm-giving鈥�), thereby creating improved business outcomes. In previous studies, I examined the nature of design capability, and via a field study amongst companies in the German-speaking market, I defined a construct that defines the criteria to evaluate the level of capability present. The empirically derived framework can now support companies in understanding where to improve the implementation, planning, or directing of their design activities."
What was the most significant finding from your research, and what aspects turned out to be most important to you?
"The most significant is the finding that a firm's design capability is not solely dependent on the expertise of designers but on the managerial aspects that enable these aspects. This needs to be addressed. To improve design, it's crucial to improve management first.
What was your motivation to work on this research project?
"I have been in design for way over 30 years and finally wanted to understand what the underlying drivers for certain is. Now I know and can incorporate this understanding in my lecturing and consulting activities.
What was the greatest obstacle that you met on the PhD journey?
"Finding the time and focus to work on it.
What did you learn about yourself during your PhD research journey? Did you develop additional new skills over the course of the PhD research?
"I learned that even at 60, previous experiences and knowledge gained are just a backdrop for what you accomplish. I am humbled to go through this experience where you have to uncover new insights, learn new ways, and understand new knowledge. For instance, the effort to achieve construct validity via an empirical study was relatively new to me. I can鈥檛 say I mastered this, but it broadens my skill set."
What are your plans for after your PhD research?
"Have some vacation and then continue with what I do. I am at the end of my career, so I need to get going!
Title of PhD thesis: Supervisors: Professor Sjoerd Romme, Dominik Georgi and Duygu Keskin