QUEST COURSES 190H: INTRODUCTION TO DESIGN AND QUALITY The focus of this first QUEST course, BMGT/ENES 190H, is on creatively solving problems to meet customer needs. Students work in multidisciplinary teams to design solutions for two design challenges by applying methods from design thinking, new product development, project management, quality management, and process improvement. This year, the first team project challenged students to apply design thinking to develop new product ideas around the themes of “On the Go” and “Living.” In addition, their solutions needed to be environmentally-friendly and inspired by nature. Students pushed themselves to tackle big problems such as preventing carbon monoxide poisoning in wildfire fighters and transporting clean water in rural villages. This spring, we faced the challenges of learning online and working remotely. Before leaving campus, each team developed a team pledge to define its goals and norms for working remotely. For the second project, teams used lean six sigma methods and design thinking to help a campus client improve a business process. The teams not only learned about process improvement but also practiced consulting with a remote client. Despite the challenges, the teams were highly engaged with their clients and delivered valuable recommendations. Our clients included the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the Bike Shop, and TerpZone. While this first QUEST course introduces students to design and quality through problem solving and teamwork, students come away with much more. Many students say that the course expands their thinking and helps them appreciate new perspectives and see the world in new ways.
“190H gave me the hands-on experience with systems thinking, process improvement, and quality that wouldn’t be found in your typical college lecture. Moreover, I enjoyed collaborating with peers who foster a problem-solving mindset when tackling real-world problems.”
Ayo Awobajo Information Systems and Marketing ‘22 Cohort 33
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“By working with a diverse multidisciplinary team in 190H, I was able to learn more about the world while jump-starting my education in quality, product development, and design thinking. This first QUEST class instilled in me the confidence that I will be successful in my future career due to all that QUEST has and will teach me.”
Julie Hirsch Mechanical Engineering ‘22 Cohort 34
QUEST Honors Program
