Innovaiting Responsibly

Abstract

PROBLEM
Foundation Models are emerging as a new paradigm in AI research &
commercialisation. While this opens up possibilities for radically innovative
solutions and significant value creation, startups are challenged with finding
unique & differentiated ways to leverage the technology, while simultaneously
mitigating potentially negative consequences.
Despite the rising prevalence of machine learning (ML) in products, designers
face challenges in creating solutions that make the best use of the new
possibilities. Designers building AI products are rarely involved in problem
setting & value finding, primarily solving human-AI interaction problems.
Additionally, common human-centered, customer feedback based innovation
approaches hinder radical innovation.
Lastly, AI Ethics and responsible innovation continues to be an afterthought.
Product designers are seldom involved in mitigating the potentially negative
consequences of such products.

APPROACH
This thesis combines literature study with a "research through design"
approach to explore ways to address these problems. Working in collaboration
with a startup trying to leverage Large Language Models (LLMs) in their
products,I use empirical research to engage in the process of finding radically
innovative opportunities for using LLMs to create value for customers.
I study risk assessment practices to explore how designers can anticipate
risks in the discovery phase of product design. I then design & test tools that
can support other designers in the future.

OUTCOMES
This thesis makes multiple contributions to further the research on
technological & responsible innovation. It documents my process for finding &
analysing user insights to support the discovery of potentially radical
innovations. Additionally, I explore the process of finding value propositions
that leverage Foundation Models, and their potential risks, early in the design
process. The thesis also records how I design a process for discovering and
anticipating potential risks of harm, and how I developed a pair of canvases
and card decks to support future designers.
The thesis supports product designers in repeating these processes through
the pair of canvases and card decks. These help them to collaborate with
engineers, and contribute to the innovation & risk mitigation processes more
effectively. The discussions focus on observations & recommendations that
can further aid them.
To help designers innovate responsibly, this thesis brings the discovery of
opportunities and risks of using Foundation Models into the same
conversation. The designed deliverables and processes showcase how both
aspects of technology innovation can be tackled in similar ways.
Through all of the above, this thesis showcases the relevance of designerly
ways of thinking and doing to the fields of radical innovation, risk
management, and Foundation Model based product development.