Certified Production & Operations Manager Exam Practice 2026 – Complete Study Guide

The term that describes a systematic approach to improving the design and function of a product is design thinking. This methodology focuses on understanding user needs, exploring creative solutions, and iterating designs based on feedback. Design thinking emphasizes empathy and user-centered design, which leads to more innovative solutions that are better aligned with customer desires.

In contrast, project management encompasses the planning and execution of a project but does not specifically focus on the product design or function improvements. Continuous improvement refers to ongoing efforts to enhance products, services, or processes but is a broader concept that might not focus solely on the systematic approach of design improvements. Product lifecycle management manages the entire lifecycle of a product from inception to disposal but again is not specifically about the systematic improvement of design and function.

Hence, design thinking is the process most aligned with a systematic approach to enhancing product design and function through creativity and user-focused strategies.