Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Department
Leadership and Innovation
First Advisor
Jon S. Wedding, EdD
First Committee Member
Martin Martinez, EdD
Second Committee Member
Anya-Jael Woods, EdD
Abstract
This qualitative study used action research to explore how the use of design thinking engaged employees in the creation of a corporate social responsibility (CSR) program proposal in a small- to medium-enterprises (SME) in the Sacramento region of California. The purpose of the study was to assess whether employee participation in a design thinking exercise could improve employee perception of engagement, inclusion, and reciprocity during the CSR program proposal creation. The study was grounded in social exchange theory, stakeholder theory, and design thinking methodologies. The iterative research process followed action research cycles (i.e., plan, act, observe, and reflect) integrated with the four design thinking phases (i.e., what is, what if, what wows, and what works).
Participants were representatives from all sectors of the SME, including stakeholders from different departments, salary levels, managerial, and nonmanagerial roles. Data collection methods included review of archival philanthropy records, a semistructured interview with the chief executive officer (CEO), pre- and post-surveys, facilitated design thinking sessions, participant observations, journaling, and member checking. Qualitative thematic analysis and comparison of survey responses were used to analyze the change in the participants’ perceptions of CSR and experience of the design thinking sessions.
Findings indicated employee engagement and perception of inclusion increased through participation in the CSR program proposal creation through the design thinking sessions. Participants reported feeling being heard, valued, and connected to organizational values. Themes of transparency, collaboration, and reciprocity emerged through the action research cycles. Participants demonstrated an expanded understanding of CSR beyond charitable giving, recognizing the relationship between CSR to organizational culture, employee well-being, and community responsibility. The study further identified design thinking as an effective framework for enhancing employee participation and cocreation in CSR initiatives in SMEs.
The study contributed to the limited body of literature examining employee-centered CSR program creation in SMEs and the integration of action research with design thinking methodologies in change processes. Findings may provide practical guidance for business leaders seeking to strengthen employee engagement and develop more effective, inclusive, measurable, and sustainable CSR programs in SMEs.
Pages
145
Recommended Citation
Danovaro, Michelle "Mindy" D. (2026). Design Thinking for Corporate Social Responsibility Program Proposal Creation. University of the Pacific, Dissertation. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/4329
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