The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is Germany’s leading development agency, supporting international cooperation and sustainable development efforts worldwide. GIZ Kosovo, as part of the organization, aims to improve the quality of life for citizens by driving systemic change through strategic partnerships, innovation, and capacity building.
As part of a broader innovation initiative, GIZ Kosovo set out to strengthen its internal culture of problem-solving. The goal wasn’t just to introduce new tools—it was to create a lasting shift in how employees think, collaborate, and develop user-centric solutions.
The organization needed more than a one-off training; they were looking to build internal capacity. The aim was to train a team of employees who could go on to independently plan, facilitate, and lead Design Thinking workshops across the organization.
GIZ Kosovo partnered with Solveo to co-design and deliver a comprehensive Design Thinking Facilitation Training program. The challenge: Can a structured program transform how a government-focused development agency approaches problem-solving—and enable its employees to confidently take the lead?
We started by building a multi-phase training experience that combined deep learning with practical application. Led by Solveo’s certified Design Thinking facilitators, the program blended theory with hands-on practice, giving participants a full picture of what it means to lead innovation—not just learn about it.
The first part of the program focused on grounding participants in the core principles of Design Thinking—empathy, ideation, prototyping, and iteration—with a strong emphasis on workshop planning and facilitation techniques. As the program progressed, participants moved from learners to leaders.
Each cohort was given the opportunity to plan and run Design Thinking workshop simulations, with Solveo facilitators offering real-time feedback and support. These simulation sessions were intentionally designed to mirror real challenges that GIZ Kosovo employees would later face in their departments.
Beyond facilitation, we emphasized the behind-the-scenes elements—preparation, team dynamics, navigating difficult moments, and ensuring meaningful outcomes. We encouraged reflection after every session, providing space for feedback, skill-building, and peer learning.
After the program, Solveo remained closely involved, offering continued support and consultation to help newly certified facilitators roll out internal workshops and embed Design Thinking in their teams’ workflows.
Sustainable Adoption: With Solveo’s ongoing support, facilitators were able to confidently lead internal workshops, ensuring that Design Thinking didn’t end with training—it became part of how GIZ Kosovo works.
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