On July 26, the CBi Service Design Salon joined forces with the Global Service Design Network (SDN) Shanghai to host an international and interdisciplinary SDN Shanghai Meetup!

The event featured the renowned global design academic, Professor Yong Se KIM, from Tongji University’s College of Design and Innovation. A Stanford PhD and member of the Design Society’s Advisory Board, Professor Kim brought his unparalleled expertise to the stage.

Executives from industry giants like Walmart, Coca-Cola, and Sungrow Power Supply, along with professionals from Donghua University, design practitioners, academic researchers, and innovation entrepreneurs, gathered to participate in this exclusive academic Meetup.

In this intellectual feast that integrated design thinking, service design thinking, product-service systems, user experience design, and sustainable design, Professor Kim unveiled his groundbreaking models and offered cutting-edge insights into the design industry.

What is Service?

Professor Yong Se KIM’s presentation started with an exploration of different schools of thought in design thinking, introducing his original framework: the “Visual Reasoning Model.”

This model combines visual thinking with reasoning, enabling designers to tackle complex design problems through innovative solutions. Using structured methodologies and tools, it enhances the designer’s capacity for creativity and problem-solving.

Building on his pioneering research in product-service systems, Professor Kim shared profound reflections on the nature of service. In his view, human value is paramount, and service is the activity of providing value between people. To design effective services, it is essential to understand and investigate human values.

What do you think defines service?

What is Service Design Thinking?

Professor Yong Se KIM proposed a simple but powerful equation:
Design Thinking + Service-Dominant Logic + Experience Economy = Service Design Thinking.

He emphasized that in the experience economy, service design must deeply understand user needs and behaviors to construct meaningful and efficient service systems. Designers must continuously pursue innovation, integrating new technologies and methodologies to improve the quality and efficiency of services, meeting ever-changing market demands and delivering personalized, comprehensive solutions.

What Are the Core Skills of a Service Designer?

Drawing on his research framework, “Eight Personal Creativity Modes,” Professor Kim decoded the core skills a top-notch service designer must possess.

His presentation revolved around the principle of “human-centered design,” a concept closely aligned with CBi’s philosophy. At CBi, we prioritize user-centered design, combining in-depth user research with systematic methodologies to address complex design challenges, foster innovation, and promote sustainable development. This approach enhances user experiences while driving brand value.

CBi’s Commitment to Innovation and Value Creation

The CBi Service Design Salon is committed to creating more value for users, businesses, industries, and society. We strive to solve complex design challenges, inspire innovation, and elevate user experiences.

CBi Service Design Salon: A Hub for Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

As an open platform for cross-disciplinary interaction, the CBi Service Design Salon collaborates with domestic and international industry leaders, experts, service design talent, and entrepreneurial innovators to drive impactful initiatives.

This unique space fosters dialogue, idea-sharing, and knowledge exchange between professionals from diverse sectors. Attendees gain access to expert-led workshops and cutting-edge insights, equipping them to seize future business opportunities.

The Salon has hosted participants from prestigious organizations like China Business Network, Shanghai Jiangsu Chamber of Commerce, and Rolling AI. In the future, more industry giants and thought leaders will join this vibrant community, ensuring continuous inspiration and groundbreaking collaboration.

Stay tuned for more surprises from the CBi Service Design Salon!