Tim Murdoch on Design Thinking in Healthcare Innovation

Welcome to our latest episode of Trail Blazers, where Johnny is joined by Tim Murdoch, who is the Business Development Lead of Digital Products at Cambridge Design Partnership.  

In this episode we dive deep into the dynamic world of design thinking, user-centred design and user experience. We will explore the contrasting approaches of start-ups and larger companies in engaging with users and making a significant impact.

We'll also discuss the advancements in predictive healthcare, such as the possibilities of  diagnosing Parkinson’s disease seven years earlier than traditional methods. This opens up a world of advancement and challenges us to consider the ethical implications of these technological capabilities.

In the medical industry, we often grapple with the question, "Just because we can do it, should we do it?" The importance of duty of care cannot be overstated, yet it’s a topic that tech giants often overlook. We face a systemic problem that requires a systemic solution, emphasising design thinking and user journey mapping to build data-driven, user-centric solutions.

Johnny and Tim’s conversation will also cover how disciplines like politics, engineering, and cross-functional teams come together to create end-to-end solutions. We'll delve into the crucial phase of asking "Why are we doing this?" to address larger-scale problems and safeguard long-term solutions.

Maintaining long-term business relationships is key. Cambridge Design Partnerships role extends beyond providing solutions; they help clients to build and train teams to sustain operations, fostering real innovation through data-driven insights.

Today we'll share core lessons and takeaways, such as not over-investing, focusing on solving primary problems, and managing data effectively to scale. The benefits of machine learning and AI in predicting behaviours and encapsulating brands in models are exciting frontiers.

Personal healthcare devices are another thrilling area, where consumer tech and regulated health are increasingly intersecting. These innovations can break down medical barriers and enable individuals to make better decisions, promoting systemic change.

Resistance to change, particularly in healthcare, is a significant hurdle. We'll explore how effective policy making and a focus on user experience can drive behavioural change and acceptance of new technologies.

Finally, we’ll discuss the importance of building consensus and trust in digital services, and how collaboration between academia and industry can bridge the skill gap and foster innovation.

Join us as we navigate these topics, highlighting the exciting opportunities and the challenges  faced in this rapidly evolving landscape.