Design Thinking as a Service Mindset

Abstract

Hospitality education has traditionally emphasized technical competence and standardized service delivery; however, the evolving hospitality industry increasingly requires graduates who demonstrate empathy, creativity, adaptability, and innovative problem-solving skills. This chapter explores how design thinking, positioned as a service mindset and supported by iterative learning models, can transform hospitality education to better align with industry expectations. Using a conceptual and practice-oriented approach, the chapter integrates design thinking frameworks, experiential learning theories, and case-based illustrations from hospitality training. The findings highlight enhanced guest-centric learning, improved adaptability, stronger academia–industry linkages, and the development of sustainability and innovation competencies essential for future-ready hospitality professionals.

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