ESB Certification Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Study Resource

The design thinking process is an iterative approach to problem-solving that focuses on understanding the user's needs and developing innovative solutions. The correct answer reflects the key stages typically involved in this process: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test.

1. **Empathize**: This initial step involves understanding the user's needs and experiences. It requires gathering insights through observation and interaction with the target audience.

2. **Define**: In this stage, the insights gathered are synthesized to define the core problems or challenges that need to be addressed. This clarity helps to focus the design efforts on what really matters to the users.

3. **Ideate**: This phase encourages brainstorming and generating a wide range of ideas and potential solutions. It promotes creativity without immediate judgment, allowing for innovative thinking.

4. **Prototype**: Prototyping involves creating quick and tangible representations of ideas. It can range from simple sketches to more complex models, enabling teams to visualize solutions.

5. **Test**: The final stage is about validating the solutions through user feedback. This iterative testing process allows teams to refine and improve their designs based on real user interactions.

This sequence encapsulates the essence of design thinking, prioritizing user-centered innovation and iterative development.