Ruth Schmidt | Behavior by design

Solving for big challenges like poverty, equity, climate change, or innovation—often referred to as “wicked” problems—is notoriously difficult. Behavioral economics can help, but has the potential to deliver greater impact if it moves from its current focus on “last mile” solutions to address root causes further upstream. In this Action Design meetup, I discussed how a hybrid approach pulling from design thinking and behavioral economics might yield new ways of tackling these complex systems challenges, which often have conflicting perspectives about what the problem even is, a high likelihood of unintended consequences, and a uniqueness that makes it difficult to look to the past for relevant data and successful prior solutions.

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In Action Design Chicago’s Season Two opener, Ruth joins Erik and Zach to discuss the intersection of behavioral science and design. Ruth shares her perspective on the importance of considering the people for whom you are designing a product, service, or experience. They cover cross-industry examples of when to lead with a behavioral science lens and support it by design thinking, vice versa, and why. 

Honored to have made the cut at Habit Weekly’s 100 best behavioral design podcast episodes — whole list available through Spotify.

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/action-design-radio/id1293571224?mt=2

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnI9JtesUFbHcjw6x7YrCnAdceAGIZJ5i

Podcast Addict: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bambuna.podcastaddict&hl=en