Skip to main content

MBA|Micro-Degree INVN_problemsolving-dt
Complex Problem Solving and Design Thinking

Complex problem solving is a critical future skill in an increasingly digitalized world where challenges are often interconnected and not clearly defined. This course, part of the Rootcamp onboarding program, equips students with the theoretical foundations, methodologies, and practical teamwork skills needed to tackle complex problems creatively and collaboratively. Students will develop cognitive, emotional, and social competencies, enhancing their ability to manage conflicts, present solutions, and thrive in dynamic environments.

  1. Course Start:

  2. Course End:

  3. Estimated Effort:

    10 h/week
Book Micro-Degree Program Enrollment in this course is by invitation only*
  • *This course is subject to a fee. Please, book the course using the “Book Micro-Degree Program” button. If you have not registered at German-UDS.academy yet, please register with the same email address that you have used for the booking. If you already have an account at German-UDS.academy, please use the same email address for the booking system.

Complex Problem Solving and Design Thinking

About This Course

This course prepares students to address complex, ill-defined challenges in the digital era by building essential future skills. It introduces theoretical frameworks, problem-solving methodologies, and teamwork practices critical for designing innovative solutions. As part of the Rootcamp onboarding module, the course emphasizes the development of cognitive, emotional, and social skills required for collaborative success in multidisciplinary environments.

Students will explore the features of complex problems, learn to manage diverse and interrelated issues, and practice presenting solution scenarios under critical evaluation. Through interactive sessions and teamwork exercises, students gain confidence in navigating the complexity of real-world digital transformation challenges.

Requirements

No specific technical background is required. Students should have a willingness to engage in team-based work, open discussion, creative thinking, and constructive conflict management.

Course Staff

Prof. Dr. Steven Ney

Dr. Steven Ney

Steven completed his doctorate in the policy sciences at the Department of Comparative Politics in the University of Bergen. Trained as a policy analyst at the University of London, Steven Ney has worked on a wide range of policy issues in a number of research institutes including the LOS Center in Bergen, ICCR in Vienna and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis in Laxenburg. After spending four years from 2005 as an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Singapore Management University, Steven Ney took up the Chair of Social Entrepreneurship at Jacobs University, Bremen in August 2009. From 2014-2018, Steven Ney designed, led and implemented continuing education formats at the HPI Academy and the HPI School of Design Thinking in Potsdam. In November 2018, Steven joined T-Systems International, a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom. Working with both internal and external T-Systems customers, Steven designed and delivered co-creation processes to help develop innovative digital products, organizational strategies, and new business models. Most recently, Steven was involved in designing and delivering the X-Creation format in which he supports diverse teams from cross-industry eco-systems in tackling pressing common challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What web browser should I use?

The Open edX platform works best with current versions of Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari.

See our list of supported browsers for the most up-to-date information.

Is technical or programming experience necessary?

No, this course focuses on problem-solving strategies, design thinking, and teamwork rather than technical or programming skills. Creativity and active participation are more important.