Overview

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Develop the required skills for successful product development, problem-focused innovation and technology commercialisation that help create new businesses or existing companies to improve performance. This comprehensive course is designed around the principles of 'Disciplined Innovation'. The course will also provide students the knowledge to make informed career choices, help entrepreneurs create a new technology venture, enable brand managers to launch successful new products and researchers to commercialise their technology. Deployable ‘frameworks’ and ‘assessment scorecards’ can be used by learners in their real-world research and business environments. In the first module, you will learn about the ‘8-C Problem Discovery Framework’ and ‘8-P Product Development Framework’ which can be used to identify real-world unmet needs and then develop products and services to meet them. In the second module, you will learn about the ‘WIMF – Winning in Market Framework’ which can help launch successful new products and services in highly competitive markets. Learners can also understand the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) which will help them validate technology and innovation for use. In the third module, you will learn how to lead the commercialization of technology and innovation effectively and 'Disciplined Innovation' with the '360 Degree Balanced Scorecard'. You will also learn how to drive 'Disciplined Innovation' in a corporate or academic setting with a '360 Degree Balanced Scorecard’. This structured approach can be used to deliver high-quality outputs across the entire innovation process by multi-disciplinary teams. This course complements 'BUS101 & BUS102 Introduction to Business Management' courses. Together, the three courses provide the knowledge and skills to lead high-performing, innovative businesses.

Syllabus

Problem Discovery and Product Development

This module focuses on two key areas: identifying problems worth solving and developing products effectively. You will explore the 8C Problem Discovery Framework, which includes various assessments—such as category, customer, and competition—to comprehensively identify problems. The module also covers the 8P Product Development Framework, detailing approaches to design, develop, and launch successful products. By the end of this module, you will be equipped to discover key problems and develop products that meet market needs.

Winning in Market Framework and Technology Assessment

This module introduces learners to the 'Winning in Market Framework' (WIMF), a strategic approach for creating and delivering value in competitive markets. You will understand why the WIMF is essential, its core components, and how it benefits organizations in achieving market success. The module also focuses on Technology Assessment, specifically the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) concept, which is critical for evaluating the maturity of technologies. Through case studies, you will gain insights into practical applications of TRL, preparing them to assess and leverage technology effectively in their strategies.

Leading the Commercialization Process, and Technology, Innovation and Leadership Framework

This module equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to lead the commercialization of technology and innovation effectively. It begins with an exploration of traditional paradigms and emerging trends in R&D institutions, followed by an in-depth look at the challenges of global R&D and the process of acquiring technology. You will understand critical success factors and the role of open innovation and intellectual property strategies in commercialization. The module then introduces the Technology, Innovation, and Leadership Framework, highlighting key success factors and the use of a Technology Management Balanced Scorecard to measure and drive performance.