In December 2015 I worked with Professor Hamish Gow to teach Design Thinking and Service Design to students on the MBA at Massey University.

The weekend-long, jam-style event fused design thinking, service design and business innovation tools and techniques to introduce MBA students to new approaches for innovation.

The weekend focussed on regional development in the Horowhenua, a region rich in horticulture and fresh produce, just over an hours drive from Wellington. The MBA cohort were introduced to the potential of Horowhenua by Geoff Lewis, the Managing Director of Tender Tips, an innovative asparagus producer and key employer in the area.

Participants then engaged in a weekend long design intensive to create service and experience design prototypes to enhance the perception of the region and drive visitors and new business to the area from Wellington. The weekend was a huge success by participants and coaches, and teams subsequently presented their ideas to the Economic Development Board.