The PGDM – International Business Department of Jagan Institute of Management Studies (JIMS), Rohini organized an insightful and interactive workshop on Design Thinking on 7th November 2025 for the students of batch 2025–27. The workshop was conducted by Mr. Saurabh Kalra, a highly experienced Fashion and Management Professional with over 22 years of expertise in Retail, Buying, Exports, and Corporate Training.
Mr. Kalra has held senior leadership positions, including Head of Merchandising & Production at FS Life, and is currently associated with White Rock Consultatre. He is also recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Merchandising and Import/Export Operations, well known for his deep knowledge and mentoring skills in Retailing, Entrepreneurship, and International Trade.
Notably, Mr. Saurabh Kalra is an alumnus of JIMS, PGDBM Batch 2000–2003, making the workshop even more special and inspiring for the students.
Mr. Kalra began the workshop with an introduction to Design Thinking, explaining it as a creative, human-centered approach to solving real-world business problems. He discussed the five stages of Design Thinking—Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test—illustrating each with practical industry examples. He emphasized how Design Thinking helps businesses innovate, stay user-focused, and make better decisions.
He also shared insights on how Design Thinking is applied across different industries to improve customer experience, enhance innovation, and address challenges effectively.
The workshop included an interactive group activity, allowing students to experience how Design Thinking works in real-life situations. The activity encouraged teamwork, creativity, and user empathy, offering students a practical understanding of developing innovative solutions.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the five stages of Design Thinking and their practical applications.
- Importance of creativity, user empathy, and teamwork in problem solving.
- How organizations use Design Thinking to innovate and enhance user experience.
- Real-world insights from a seasoned industry expert.
The workshop concluded with a heartfelt thanks to Mr. Saurabh Kalra for sharing his time, insights, and valuable experience. Students left the workshop with a deeper understanding of Design Thinking and its practical relevance in the modern business world.