IDEO

IDEO is a pioneering global design and innovation consultancy that has shaped the field of human-centered design for nearly 50 years. Founded by David Kelley, the firm has become synonymous with design thinking methodology, helping organizations worldwide create products, services, and strategies that place human needs at the center of innovation. With studios in Cambridge, Chicago, London, San Francisco, and Shanghai, IDEO serves clients across virtually every industry, from healthcare and financial services to education, technology, and the public sector. The consultancy operates through three interconnected phases—Inspiration, Ideation, and Implementation—combining deep empathy research with creative experimentation and systems thinking. IDEO has expanded its offerings to include specialized practices such as IDEO Health, IDEO AI, and IDEO Play, alongside educational platforms like IDEO U and the social impact arm IDEO.org. Their client roster includes transformative partnerships with global brands like Ford, Sephora, H&M, Moderna, and Boom Supersonic, demonstrating their ability to tackle challenges ranging from retail experience design to organizational culture transformation. As the industry evolves, IDEO is actively integrating AI and emerging technologies into their design practice while maintaining their commitment to ethical, human-led innovation. The firm emphasizes not just delivering design solutions, but building lasting innovation capabilities within client organizations, helping them develop the mindsets and processes needed for sustained creative growth.