Brendan Boyle

Brendan Boyle is a prominent figure in the fields of innovation, design thinking, and toy invention. He has held several significant roles throughout his career:

Professional Positions

Brendan Boyle is currently an Associate Partner at Fuse London, a renowned toy and game invention house.4 He is also the Founder of the IDEO Play Lab and an Adjunct Professor at Stanford University's d.School.1

Previously, Boyle was a Partner at IDEO, where he played a crucial role in promoting entrepreneurial thinking and design innovation.2 He founded Skyline, a toy development company that was later acquired by IDEO and transformed into IDEO's Toy Lab.2

Achievements and Expertise

Toy Invention:: Brendan has an impressive track record in toy invention. He has invented and licensed over 250 toys and apps, including popular products like the Jumperoo and Elmo Calls.1 His expertise extends to designing kid-centric goods, services, and experiences.2

Design Thinking:: Boyle is a strong advocate for design thinking principles. He teaches these concepts both at IDEO and Stanford University, emphasizing their importance in fostering innovation.23

Education and Teaching:: At Stanford University, Brendan teaches a course called "From Play to Innovation" (also known as "Design for Play") at the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (d.school).12 He has been recognized as the Knight Favorite Professor for his teaching contributions.2

Philosophy and Approach

Brendan Boyle firmly believes in the power of play as a key driver of innovation and engagement. His famous quote, "The opposite of play isn't work but it's boredom," encapsulates his philosophy.1 He advocates for playful exploration and risk-taking in creative processes and helps companies build cultures of innovation through this approach.13

Additional Contributions

Boyle co-authored "The Klutz Book of Inventions," an award-winning book featuring never-before-seen inventions.12 He also serves on the Board of the National Institute for Play, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of play into public life.2

Brendan Boyle holds a Master's Degree from the Joint Program for Design at Stanford University and a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University.2