Disagreements in design aren’t a problem—they’re a sign that people care. The real challenge is turning 'spirited debates' into progress. Focus on shared goals, test ideas with small experiments, and create space for open conversations. The best solutions often come from a mix of brains, not just one loud opinion!

Start with listening: Hear every perspective without judgment. As Steve Jobs said, "Great things in business are never done by one person; they’re done by a team." Find common ground: Focus on shared goals, For eg, Apple combined hardware and software teams to create the iPhone—blending ideas led to innovation. Encourage small compromises: Netflix didn’t start with streaming; they evolved by adapting ideas. Take the best from each approach and make it work. Remind the team: "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Stay focused on the bigger picture, not individual wins. Lead with trust: Make the call if needed, but explain how it aligns with the project’s success. Stay united:Together, we’ll create something amazing.

The fundamental question here is: What is the real-life problem that this innovation aims to solve ? No solution is worth its salt, if it doesn't help the consumer in some way at the end. The next important question is: Is this innovation the only way to solve the given problem? Has the solution domain been adequately explored ? First align the team to a common problem statement. Solutions will align automatically. Give preferential treatment to inputs of those in field, who will use this design innovation, day-in and out. Conflicts only arise due to lack of leadership, inability to grasp ground realities or personal gains. Address that and you will reach to your solution.

Focus on what is right rather than who is right. Prioritize the best solution for the project by relying on data, user needs, and technical feasibility. Encourage open discussions, respect diverse ideas, and let results guide decisions.

To unify a divided team on software design innovation, facilitate open discussions where all perspectives are heard and valued. Encourage team members to articulate their ideas, focusing on the "why" behind their preferences and the potential benefits and drawbacks of each approach. Identify common ground and areas of alignment, building consensus around core principles and goals. Explore different design options collaboratively, using techniques like prototyping or user testing to evaluate their effectiveness and inform decision-making. Ultimately, guide the team towards a unified vision by facilitating compromise and ensuring that the chosen design reflects the best collective thinking.