ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the design thinking framework and process as well as the lean start-up method in relationship to traditional business planning. It highlights the key characteristics and strategies of design thinking along with the tools of the lean start-up approach; with a specific focus on the business model canvas. The chapter examines how two start-ups applied the lean start-up approach to their current ventures. It helps the reader to understand the design thinking process and ways one can use such a process to begin the launch of the social venture journey, and to learn about the key elements of the lean start-up approach compared to traditional business planning. The chapter also helps the reader to understand the lean start-up process and construct a business model canvas and/or lean canvas to develop one venture's hypotheses. It provides examples of entrepreneurs in the field using the lean start-up method to understand their customers and inform their long-term strategy and business plan.
