How to survive a PhD – using Design Thinking methods and the Business Model Canvas

Graduate students face great non-technical challenges during their PhD. Also supervisors can struggle in effective multi-PhD management. The present study explores the utilization of Design Thinking and business canvas approaches in different phases of a PhD to address these challenges. The state-of-art is summarized and the Business Model Canvas–as most common Design Thinking method in industrial practice was evaluated in workshops with students and was subsequently translated to PhD terminology. The study closes with recommendations for students and supervisors showing how these methods can help them to survive the PhD- e.g. in topic identification, innovation management or research communication.