What is the final stage of the Design Thinking process?

The final stage of the Design Thinking process is actually focused on testing and refining ideas before implementation, which is often mistakenly identified as "Creating." In the Design Thinking framework, after developing prototypes, the next crucial step involves evaluating these prototypes through user feedback and iterative improvement.

Creating, while an integral part of the process, typically refers to the phase where ideas are brought to life through tangible prototypes and solutions, rather than being the conclusive action of the entire process. The essence of Design Thinking emphasizes assessing the practicality and relevance of the solutions developed, ensuring they effectively address the users' needs and enhancing user experience. Therefore, the culmination of Design Thinking is realized in the evaluation and refinement stages rather than merely in the act of creating.