Design thinking resource
A decision-making framework for assessing whether an idea is valuable to people, achievable in practice and sustainable over time.
Desirability focuses on people. It examines whether a concept addresses genuine needs, solves meaningful problems or creates experiences that stakeholders value.
An idea may be technically impressive, but if people do not need it or want it, its impact is likely to be limited. Understanding desirability helps ensure innovation remains human-centred.
Feasibility focuses on implementation. This involves assessing whether the required technology, resources, expertise and capabilities exist to deliver the concept successfully.
Teams must consider technical constraints, operational requirements and practical limitations before moving forward.
Viability focuses on sustainability and long-term success. It considers whether a solution can create sufficient value to justify ongoing support, investment and operation.
This may involve financial, organisational, strategic and stakeholder considerations. Viability helps determine whether a concept can survive and grow beyond initial development.
Put the method to work
Review stakeholder needs, expectations and potential value.
Examine technical capabilities, resources and constraints.
Evaluate sustainability, value creation and organisational fit.
Use findings to identify ideas with the strongest overall potential.
Why it matters
Keep stakeholder needs at the centre of innovation.
Consider implementation realities and constraints.
Support long-term value creation and success.
Help teams prioritise opportunities with the greatest overall potential.
Continue exploring
Place this method back within the broader 5E Design Thinking Framework and continue developing your understanding.