IBDP Design Technology - 5.4 Stakeholders in invention and innovation

Innovation and Design / 5.4 /
Stakeholders in invention and innovation

There are three key roles in invention and innovation, which can be shared by one or more people. Collaborative generation of knowledge and high-efficiency information flow allow for diversity, increased resilience, reliability and stability within an organization. Through participatory research, stakeholders can make full use of the resulting innovation and invention, by transferring findings relevant to the sector in which they are positioned. A designer’s increased awareness through shared industry knowledge enhances profitability and policy.

5.4.1 | The inventor, the product champion, the entrepreneur

In the context of innovative design, the inventor, the product champion, and the entrepreneur play distinct yet complementary roles in bringing new ideas to life. These three roles often overlap and interact. The inventor provides the creative spark, the product champion nurtures the idea within the organization, and the entrepreneur brings it to market. Together, they form a critical trio in the pursuit of innovation.

Question: What role would fit your character best? Why?

Inventor: The inventor is the creative mind behind the innovation. They are responsible for generating the initial idea, conceptualizing the product or service, and developing the technical specifications. An example of a renowned inventor is Thomas Edison, who held over 1,000 patents, including the phonograph, the lightbulb, and the motion picture camera.

Product Champion: The product champion is the internal advocate for the innovation within the organization. They are responsible for articulating the vision for the product, building support among stakeholders, and securing resources for development. An example of a prominent product champion is Steve Jobs, who played a pivotal role in bringing innovative products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad to market.

Entrepreneur: The entrepreneur is the driving force behind the commercialization of the innovation. They are responsible for identifying market opportunities, creating a business plan, securing funding, and launching the product or service to market. An example of a celebrated entrepreneur is Elon Musk, who founded companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and PayPal, all of which have revolutionized their respective industries.

5.4.2 | The inventor as a product champion and/or entrepreneur

Inventors might take on the roles of product champion and/or entrepreneur for several reasons:

Passion and Belief: Inventors are deeply passionate about their creations, and this passion drives them to advocate for their ideas and seek ways to bring them to market. They firmly believe in the value of their innovations and are determined to see them succeed.
Knowledge and Expertise: Inventors possess a deep understanding of their inventions and the technical challenges involved in bringing them to fruition. This expertise is invaluable in communicating the product's potential and navigating the complexities of development and commercialization.
Control and Influence: Inventors often desire to maintain control over the development and direction of their creations. By taking on the roles of product champion and entrepreneur, they can exert significant influence over the product's design, features, and marketing.
Financial Rewards: Inventors can reap significant financial rewards if their innovations are successful in the marketplace. Taking on the entrepreneurial role allows them to capture a greater share of the potential profits.

Examples of inventors who have successfully transitioned into product champions and entrepreneurs include:

James Dyson: The inventor of the Dyson vacuum cleaner, Dyson took on the role of product champion and entrepreneur to bring his innovative design to market. He founded Dyson Ltd. in 1993 and has since grown it into a global company known for its high-quality home appliances.
Bill Gates: The inventor of the Microsoft MS-DOS operating system, Gates became a product champion and entrepreneur in building Microsoft into the world's largest software company. He actively promoted the company's products and steered its strategic direction, resulting in the widespread adoption of Microsoft software across personal computers.
Oprah Winfrey: The creator of the Oprah Winfrey Show, Winfrey is a self-made entrepreneur and a media mogul. She used her platform to promote her own ideas and products, building a successful brand and a multibillion-dollar empire.

5.4.3 | A multidisciplinary approach to innovation

Multidisciplinary teams, composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds and expertise, offer several advantages in the context of innovative design:

Broader Range of Ideas: Multidisciplinary teams bring together a wider range of perspectives, experiences, and knowledge, leading to a more diverse pool of ideas and solutions. This cross-pollination of ideas can spark creativity and innovation, breaking conventional thinking patterns and leading to unexpected breakthroughs.
Enhanced Problem-Solving: Multidisciplinary teams possess a broader range of skills and expertise, enabling them to tackle complex problems from multiple angles. This diversity of approaches can lead to more effective problem-solving and the development of more robust and comprehensive solutions.
Improved Communication and Collaboration: Multidisciplinary teams encourage collaboration and cross-functional communication, breaking down silos and fostering a culture of shared learning. This collaborative environment can lead to a more cohesive and productive design process.
Increased Innovation and Adaptability: Multidisciplinary teams are better equipped to adapt to changing market demands and technological advancements. Their diverse perspectives and expertise enable them to identify new opportunities and develop innovative solutions that address evolving needs.

However, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider:

Communication Challenges: Multidisciplinary teams may face challenges in effectively communicating and coordinating across different disciplines. This can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and frustration.
Integration Difficulties: Integrating diverse perspectives and expertise into a cohesive design can be challenging. It requires careful planning, strong leadership, and a willingness to compromise.
Conflict Potential: The diverse perspectives and backgrounds within multidisciplinary teams can lead to disagreements and conflicts. Effective conflict resolution strategies are essential to maintain team cohesion and productivity.
Time and Resource Requirements: Multidisciplinary teams often require more time and resources to coordinate and manage effectively. This can impact project timelines and budgets.

Despite these potential challenges, the advantages of multidisciplinary teams often outweigh the disadvantages, making them a valuable asset in the context of innovative design. By carefully considering the challenges and implementing effective strategies to address them, organizations can harness the power of multidisciplinary teams to drive innovation and achieve their design goals.

The Nike Air Max sneaker line is a result of collaboration between Nike designers, engineers, and material scientists. The team worked together to develop innovative cushioning technologies, breathable fabrics, and stylish designs that have made Air Max sneakers a global icon.

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