The fifth step in the Design Thinking process is defining the plan to move forward...

The correct answer is A. The winning solution concept. In the Design Thinking framework discussed in Global Innovation Institute topics, the process moves through several stages that gradually transform insights about users and problems into practical innovation solutions. Early stages focus on exploring the problem, gaining clarity about user needs, and identifying opportunities for value creation. Once multiple ideas and concepts have been generated, the team evaluates them to determine which concept best addresses the identified need.

The fifth step involves defining a clear plan for moving forward with the strongest concept that emerged from earlier stages. This concept becomes the leading candidate for further development, testing, and eventual implementation. At this stage, teams typically outline how the solution will be developed, validated, and prepared for real-world application.

Selecting and planning around the winning solution concept ensures that innovation efforts remain focused and organized. It also allows the organization to align resources, stakeholders, and development activities around the most promising idea. This step marks the transition from broad ideation toward structured execution of the selected innovation concept.