Step 1: My Biggest Take-Away
One of the most striking takeaways from the TED Talk was how design thinking often involves revealing the “blindingly obvious” details that organizations routinely overlook. Paul Bennett’s example, where he highlighted the simple yet profound act of nurses gently comforting patients—such as by petting or holding their hands—really resonated with me. This small, human gesture, which might seem trivial at first, revealed a deep insight into the patient experience. When patients lie in hospital beds all day, their surroundings can feel sterile and isolating. Simple improvements, like fostering human connection or rethinking the design of a hospital room, can dramatically enhance their experience. The gesture demonstrated that sometimes a straightforward, empathetic observation can spark meaningful change. It reminds us that paying attention to these tiny, often-overlooked details is the key to uncovering opportunities for innovation that truly resonate with user needs.
Step 2: “The Wake-Up Launcher”
Simone Gertz:
Even though my machines might look like simple, funny engineering, I’ve realized they’re actually something bigger—a way to fight against our lazy habit of hitting the snooze button. Today, I’m excited to show you the Wake-Up Launcher: a bed that literally throws you out of bed the second your alarm goes off!
People often ask me if I’ll ever build something “useful.” Maybe one day I will. But what if I’ve already built something that turns the boring task of waking up into a moment of pure excitement? Imagine: instead of struggling with the snooze button, you get a fun, mechanical push that—bam!—launches you into your day with a burst of energy.
(Shows the machine)
（Laughter）
I know what you’re thinking: “A bed that throws you out of bed? That’s crazy!” And that’s the whole point. What we truly need isn’t just an alarm clock—it’s the momentum and courage to get out of bed. And that’s where the Wake-Up Launcher comes in. It’s not just a machine; it’s a bold, playful solution that gives you the push (literally!) to start your day with energy and determination. We’re not just building devices—we’re redefining mornings with a spark of rebellion and creativity.
(Audience claps)