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Design Skills for Public Innovation

Design Skills for Public Innovation

Practical tools to design better public services

IPAC, in collaboration with the Danish Design Centre, is pleased to offer a four-module training series for public sector professionals looking to strengthen their design, innovation, and leadership skills.

This practical series explores how design can be used as a strategic tool to solve complex problems, improve public services, influence behaviour, and support future-focused decision-making across the public sector.

Sessions run from 12:00–2:00 p.m. ET / 6:00–8:00 p.m. CPH.

Register Today        Read the FAQs

 
Design Skills for Public Innovation training series
Hosted by the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) in collaboration with 

This year's modules offer a new and more advanced set of design thinking modules to address emerging “top of mind” issues for the Canadian public sector.

Program Schedule

  • May 4, 2026: Module 1 – Design 101: Design as an Approach to Problem Solving and Public Services
  • May 11, 2026: Module 2 – Behavioral Design: From Intention to Action
  • May 19, 2026: Module 3 – How to Design Public Services: A Human-Centered and Systemic Approach
  • May 26, 2026: Module 4 – Exploring New Futures: Enabling Strategic Conversations

All sessions run from 12:00–2:00 p.m. ET. Each workshop is 120 minutes.

Key Features

  • Preparation: Includes short pre-readings and a participant survey to support engagement.
  • Interactive Sessions: Each module includes presentations, breakout discussions, and live Q&A.
  • Expert Faculty: Led by practitioners from the Danish Design Centre with deep experience in public sector innovation.
  • Practical Tools: Gain hands-on methods and frameworks you can apply directly in your work.
  • Recording Access: Session recordings will be available within 48 hours of each module.

By attending this program, participants will

Apply design thinking to solve complex public sector challenges.
Use behavioral design to bridge the gap between policy intent and real-world action.
Design more effective, human-centered public services.
Use practical tools and futures thinking to support better decision-making.

The Speakers

Key Features

Preparation

Includes short pre-readings and a participant survey to support engagement.

Interactive Sessions

Each module includes presentations, breakout discussions, and live Q&A.

Expert Faculty

Led by practitioners from the Danish Design Centre with deep experience in public sector innovation and design.

Practical Tools & Frameworks

Gain hands-on methods you can apply directly to your work across policy, programs, and service delivery.

Recording Access

Session recordings will be available within 48 hours of each module.

The Key Details

Format

120-minute virtual modules


Eligibility

Open to all interested in expanding their knowledge of challenges in the public sector in Canada.

Instructors

Each workshop is led by a Danish Design Centre subject matter expert

Registration

Virtual Training | Design Skills for Public Innovation

Join us for the 2026 Achieve Design Excellence in Public Innovation workshop, a cutting-edge virtual training series developed by IPAC and the Danish Design Centre. This four-module program explores the latest in design thinking, digital services, AI, leadership, and mission-led innovation. Learn from global experts, engage in interactive discussions, and gain practical tools to tackle complex public sector challenges. Secure your spot today and be part of the future of public innovation!
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Participez à l'atelier 2026 "Atteindre l'excellence en design pour l'innovation publique", une série de formations virtuelles de pointe développée par l'IAPC et le Danish Design Centre. Ce programme en quatre modules explore les dernières avancées en pensée design, services numériques, IA, leadership et innovation guidée par la mission. Apprenez auprès d'experts internationaux, engagez-vous dans des discussions interactives et acquérez des outils pratiques pour relever les défis complexes du secteur public. Réservez votre place dès aujourd’hui et prenez part à l’avenir de l’innovation publique !
When
5/4/2026 12:00 PM - 5/25/2026 2:00 PM
Eastern Daylight Time
Registration
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is this workshop about?

This virtual training series, developed by IPAC in collaboration with the Danish Design Centre, equips public sector professionals with practical design tools to address complex challenges. Participants will learn how to apply design thinking, behavioral insights, and service design approaches to create more effective, human-centered public services and support future-focused decision-making.

Who should attend?

This program is ideal for public servants, policymakers, innovation leaders, and professionals working in policy, programs, service design, and strategic planning across the public sector.

What are the workshop dates and topics?

The program consists of four virtual modules:

  • Monday, May 4: Design 101 – Design as an Approach to Problem Solving and Public Services
  • Monday, May 11: Behavioral Design – From Intention to Action
  • Tuesday, May 19: How to Design Public Services – A Human-Centered and Systemic Approach
  • Monday, May 26: Exploring New Futures – Enabling Strategic Conversations

What is the format of the sessions?

Each module is 120 minutes and runs from 12:00–2:00 p.m. ET (6:00–8:00 p.m. CPH). Sessions include expert presentations, interactive discussions, and breakout activities. Participants will also receive preparatory materials in advance.

Will the sessions be recorded?

Yes. Recordings will be available within 48 hours of each module. Participants will also receive presentation materials.

How much does the program cost?

  • Individual Registration: $1,500 (Member/Non-Member)
  • Group Registration (5+ participants): Contact Suzanne Patterson at [email protected] for pricing details.

How do I register?

Register online at ipac.ca/ddc.

What if I have trouble registering?

If you experience any registration issues, please contact Dianne Bukaka at [email protected] or call 416-924-8787.

Can I attend just one module instead of the full program?

Currently, registration is for the full four-module series to provide a comprehensive learning experience.

Do I receive a certificate upon completion?

Yes, participants who complete all four modules will receive a certificate of completion from IPAC and the Danish Design Centre.

Who are the instructors?

The series is led by subject-matter experts from the Danish Design Centre, with extensive experience in public sector innovation, design thinking, and service design.

How can I prepare for the sessions?

Before each module, you will receive pre-reading materials and a short survey to help you engage fully in the session.

What is the deadline for registration?

Registration is open until May 4, but space is limited—early registration is recommended.

Register today and be part of the public service’s transformation!

Click here to register

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