Dean Varun Nagaraj explores AI’s role in human-centred design
July 22, 2025
In this Analytics Insight podcast, Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR, and host Priya Dialani explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance human-centred innovation without losing sight of empathy and purpose. Drawing from his extensive academic and industry experience in Silicon Valley, Prof. Nagaraj emphasises the critical need to foster wise innovation that combines technological sophistication with social impact.
He delves into the evolution of design thinking in the AI era, examining how the four essential pillars—empathy-led insights, divergent ideation, rapid prototyping, and iterative refinement—adapt to new technological capabilities. Prof. Nagaraj addresses common challenges that organisations face when integrating AI tools, such as the temptation to replace human observation with automated processes and the risk of losing authentic user understanding.
Reflecting on the role of education in shaping the next generation of innovators, he highlights that true design thinking extends beyond technological proficiency. “Students still need to walk through fish markets or crowded buses to grasp user experiences fully,” he states, reinforcing how SPJIMR enables participants to develop genuine empathy whilst leveraging AI as a creative partner. He emphasises that balancing cognitive empathy with analytical clarity remains essential for navigating complex design challenges and creating meaningful solutions.
The conversation reveals his belief that viewing AI as an augmentation tool rather than a replacement fosters both technological advancement and purpose-driven outcomes. This approach ensures that innovation serves genuine human needs while maintaining the irreplaceable value of direct observation and lived experience.
A key takeaway from the episode is the concept of ‘wise innovation’ that individuals and organisations can adopt to build impactful solutions whilst continuing to prioritise human needs and social responsibility. It also highlights the leadership quality of maintaining empathy in decision-making, urging listeners to recognise that innovation carries an inherent responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society.
A must-listen for aspiring product designers and seasoned leaders, this episode offers actionable strategies for integrating AI capabilities with empathetic design principles to create solutions that are both technologically sophisticated and socially impactful.
Don’t miss this compelling discussion on how innovators can use AI tools into instruments for wise, empathetic innovation.
Listen to the full episode here: