дизайн-мышление

Introduction. The fourth industrial revolution is changing the demands for knowledge and skills that managers at all levels in business, government and the non-profit sector must possess. Theoretical analysis. Creative thinking, the ability to organize the generation of new ideas, as well as a systematic approach to solving complex problems are recognized as important. One of the approaches that is used for the formation of creative thinking is design thinking. This approach is currently used by leading companies and non-profit organizations to ensure competitive advantages. Еmpirical analysis. The article analyzes publications on the emergence and spread of design thinking, its role in the training programs for innovators at leading universities and business schools in the world. The author’s experience on the application of this approach in the educational process of Russian universities and in continuing education is also analyzed. Discussion and results. The analysis confirms the fact that learning design thinking contributes to the development of creative thinking, increases the students’ confidence in their creative potential, forms skills in a multidisciplinary team. The conclusion is made about the importance and relevance of training managers to creative thinking.