The traditional linear and analytic problem-solving processes to which business leaders have become accustomed-from quality management to Six Sigma-rarely open up the variety of different 'frames' that the more exploratory approaches from the realm of Design Thinking can. The authors show that sometimes-and more frequently than ever these days-we need many different frames around a problem in order to see the many different possible solutions. They describe four elements of the skill of framing and 're-framing' a problem, and show how together, they enable you to 'create a new story' on behalf of your customer.

There is a generic innovation process, grounded in models of how people learn, that can be applied across multiple sectors. It can be applied to the design and development of both hardware and software products, to the design of business models and services, to the design of organizations and how they work, and to the design of the buildings and spaces in which work takes place or within which companies interact with their customers. Describes such a model of innovation, grounding it in learning models and developing its implications for understanding, implementing, and engaging in the innovation process. Focuses on the value and functions of multifaceted innovation teams, notes the difficulties inherent in innovation efforts, shows where some of the pitfalls are for organizations attempting to innovate, and emphasizes the need to be flexible and adaptive in using the innovation process.

Describes the efforts made by the Boston Red Sox to sign superstar Japanese pitcher Daisuke (Dice-K) Matsuzaka within the context of the team's attempts to keep pace with longtime rival, the New York Yankees. In late 2006, Dice-K is viewed as the prize of the free agent pitching market. However, negotiations between the Red Sox and Dice-K's camp have broken down with the signing deadline less than 24 hours away (if Dice-K is not signed by the deadline, he must return to Japan for a year). How high should the Red Sox be willing to go with their offer? What are the alternatives if they fail to sign Dice-K? What kind of performance should they expect from Dice-K in the 2007 season? And finally, how does the signing fit into the greater strategic context of competing with the much-better funded Yankees?