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The role of design thinking in business strategy planning in marine ecosystems
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Ali Shafiei   , Abolghasem Arabiyun * , Afshin Moghadasi , Mohamadreza Mansurirad |
| Faculty of Entrepreneurship , arabiun@ut.ac.ir |
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Abstract: (26 Views) |
Background and Aim: Design thinking, as an innovative and human-centered approach to solving complex problems, has attracted significant attention across various management domains. However, its systematic application in strategic planning for businesses embedded in the marine ecosystem has been less explored. This study aimed to clarify the role and framework of design thinking in shaping business strategies within this ecosystem.
Methods: Using a meta-synthesis approach (based on the Sandelowski and Barroso model) and the PRISMA framework, this research conducted a systematic review of the existing literature. The study population included 89 peer-reviewed articles indexed in ScienceDirect, Francis, Springer, and Google Scholar, with no time restriction up to 2023.
Results: Content coding and analysis of the selected articles identified a comprehensive framework, categorized into three main dimensions: Design thinking components (6 themes): observation, empathy, ideation, discovery, prototyping, and testing. Business strategy components (4 themes): environmental analysis, innovation, competitiveness, and vision setting. Sub-sectors of the marine ecosystem (8 themes): marine tourism, fisheries, offshore industries, ports and shipping, shipbuilding, maritime transport, water-based agriculture and desalination, and marine energy industries.
Conclusion: The findings clearly demonstrate that design thinking, by fostering innovation, enhancing competitiveness, and maintaining a focus on human needs, can serve as a powerful strategic tool for ensuring the sustainability and growth of businesses in the complex and dynamic marine ecosystem. These insights provide valuable guidance for entrepreneurs, managers, and policymakers engaged in the blue economy. |
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| Keywords: Design thinking, Business strategy, Marine ecosystem, Marine-based economy, Systematic review |
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Type of Study: Review |
Subject:
Marine Medicine
Received: 2025/05/28 | Accepted: 2025/09/2 | Published: 2025/09/1
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