The key principles of S-D logic and design practice have different roots yet are strikingly similar. Design practice and the more conceptual discourse design thinking (DT) are deeply concerned with the creation of value and the importance of understanding the users/customers.
This paper introduces the characteristics of S-D logic and compares them with the central characteristics of DT. The paper explores connections and overlaps between the two concepts, and concludes that the connections are complementary, the main difference being the descriptive nature of S-D logic in relation to the interpretative nature of DT. Some practical implications of the use of service dominant logic for design thinking and design practice are proposed.