Design Thinking: Miron Crosby

(Image courtesy of Miron Crosby.)

In Graduate School, one of the buzzwords professors love to discuss is "Design Thinking." Design Thinking is an iterative process in which we seek to understand the user, challenge assumptions, and redefine problems to identify alternative strategies and solutions that might not be instantly apparent with our initial level of understanding (Dam and Siang). Design Thinking enables companies to understand consumer needs to serve their audience better. For this project, I contacted different companies to learn how organizations applied Design Thinking. I spoke with Miron Crosby's co- founder, Sarah Means, to learn how the company incorporates its mission and vision into its products.

(Image courtesy of Miron Crosby. Sarah is on the right, while her sister Lizzie Means Duplantis is on the left.)

1. What makes Miron Crosby boots different from other cowboy boots?

We approach our collection with a focus more on fashion than traditionally Western. While we’re very true to the cowboy boot silhouette and traditional elements of shape, we think outside of the box when it comes to design.

(Image courtesy of Miron Crosby.)

2. Where do you and the design time find inspiration during the design process?

Truly all over, but especially from nature. We adore the flora and fauna of West Texas and always look to the catwalk, street style, art, and architecture.

3. How do you incorporate your mission and vision into your products?

Our boots are handmade works of art, which sets the tone for our whole company. We exist to offer an amazing product through a wonderful customer service experience from an incredible team to our fantastic clients, so we focus on respect, hospitality, and luxury.

(Image courtesy of Miron Crosby.)

4. What is the future of the company?

We are in an exciting season of growth! Certainly, our focus is on newness in the collection, and we are celebrating the opening of our third brick-and-mortar store this fall in Houston, Texas!

(Image courtesy of Miron Crosby.)