OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development
Open-access peer-reviewed journal
https://doi.org/10.64211/oidaijsd190209
Using Design Thinking to Overcome Challenges in the Civil Servant COVID-19
Yurii Dziurakh 1*, Nazar Podolchak 2, Natalia Tsygylyk 3, Veronika Karkovska4,
Olena Bilyk 5, Oleh Sokil 6
1,2,3,4,5,6 Department of Administrative and Financial Management, Institute of Public Administration, Governance and Professional Development, Lviv Polytechnic National University, 3 Mytropolyta Andreia St., Lviv, 79013, Ukraine.
*Corresponding author: yriu.dziurakh@ukr.net
Volume 19, Issue 02, Pg. 109-116, 2026
Abstract: Design thinking is an approach that enables civil servants to collaborate effectively in the face of challenges posed by COVID-19. The article examines how the application of this method can increase the productivity and effectiveness of public sector employees, as well as help mitigate the negative pandemic consequences for the civil service. The study focuses on how design thinking contributes to the creation of new public administration strategies in times of crisis. Particular attention is paid to the impact of this method on the development of personal and professional competencies of civil servants, which is an integral part of effective governance. This article explains the main design thinking components, their key features, and their significance for work in the public sector. It also provides recommendations for the adaptation of civil servants to the new conditions posed by the pandemic, and considers the possibility of implementing the Stanford Design Thinking methodology in Ukrainian state institutions, which will contribute to increasing their flexibility and modernization. Applying this approach helps to increase staff productivity, effectively manage risks arising from the pandemic, and improve teamwork and leadership. Design thinking also supports the adoption of more informed management decisions and contributes to the improvement of the management of public institutions. The article also explains that design thinking can significantly reduce the negative consequences of the pandemic, improve the efficiency of the management of public institutions, and the civil service. The results of the study will improve the design thinking perception and provide an opportunity to use it after the pandemic.
Keywords: design thinking, civil service, COVID-19, managers professional competences
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