Design Thinking Innovation
& Lean Operations

Overview of Design Thinking Approach

Design thinking methods developed at CoERS provide a structured framework for problem-solving from a human factors perspective. Several tools have been designed to simplify processes and upskill personnel through capability-building programs. Fact-based framing of hypotheses, derived from detailed field observations, forms the core of this approach. Observations focus on the 3M&E perspective (Man, Machine, Method, and Environment), allowing identification of root causes and human-centric solutions to improve road safety.

The design thinking course for road engineers is curated to integrate business excellence models and observational tools for structured planning and tracking. The pedagogy emphasises case studies, field exercises, and assignments, while comprehensively integrating the role and responsibilities of Road Safety Officers (RSOs).

Certified Training Program on Design-Thinking Based Problem Solving Approaches for Safe Roads (August 2023)

CoERS, in collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), conducted a 10-day Certified Training Program on Design-Thinking Based Problem-Solving Approaches for Safe Roads, adhering to the latest standards recommended by MoRTH and the Indian Roads Congress (IRC). Eight RSOs from seven states — Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh — participated in the program held at IIT Madras.

Course Purpose

• Inculcate the design thinking approach to Road Safety Audit (RSA).
• Simplify road audit processes and upskill personnel.
• Enhance observation skills and identify key safety components for practical application.
• Provide tools and knowledge to organise, conduct, and document comprehensive road audits.

Course Outline

• Introduction to the Design Thinking Approach and data-driven tools to identify High-Frequency Accident Zones (HFAZ).
• The 5E model covering Road Engineering and Safety Interventions, Scientific Enforcement, Structured Crash Investigation, Emergency Care, and Education.
• Hands-on training in evaluating road safety from a human factors perspective using data-driven methods.
• Conducted RSA on the Chennai–Trichy Highway, identifying challenges in engineering and enforcement, and developing short-term and long-term recommendations.
• Field implementation planned on the Chengalpattu–Tindivanam–Ulundurpet stretch.
• Valedictory session with certificates awarded by Shri Vinit Dev Wankhede, IPS, Additional Director General of Police, Tamil Nadu.

Course Outcomes

• Improved managerial capabilities for efficient planning of RSA processes.
• Enhanced observational abilities from the user journey perspective.
• Incorporation of creative and novel road safety interventions.
• Adoption of iterative processes, integrating lessons from testing and research into solutions.
• Understanding of road accident statistics, traffic legislation, RSA methodology, and risk factors contributing to crashes.
• Proficiency in identifying road network risk elements and presenting accurate audit data.

Design Thinking Course for Safety and Operational Excellence

CoERS initiated a course to integrate design thinking principles for safety and operational excellence, aimed at NHIT officials. The objectives were twofold: to enhance road safety interventions through strategies and methodologies, and to improve operational efficiency in highway infrastructure management.

Participants from operations and safety verticals were introduced to the Suzhal Management System (SMS), developed by Prof. Venkatesh Balasubramanian. SMS provides a framework integrating human factors and lean tools to optimise processes, workflows, and organisational performance. Combined with design thinking principles, the system fosters user-centric, innovative solutions for road safety interventions.

Module 1 (Delhi, 18–20 Oct 2023) • Module 2 (Delhi 18–19 Dec 2023)

The 3GL System Launched by CoERS

To revamp the driving licence issuance process, CoERS launched the 3 Gate Licensing (3GL) System on October 11, 2022. The system evaluates drivers in three stages:

• Gate 1: Knowledge and physiological fitness
• Gate 2: Simulator-based skill assessment
• Gate 3: On-road driving evaluation

This framework ensures objective assessment of driver knowledge, behaviour, and adherence to road safety practices.

School Bus Driver Training and Road Safety Education

To instill road safety awareness from a young age, CoERS developed a simulator-based curriculum for school and college bus drivers. Through an MoU with SNS Foundation and partnership with Red Chariots, 2,009 drivers were trained in 100 days across 42 schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Tiruvannamalai, and Chengalpattu districts, promoting safe driving practices and road etiquette.