15.356 | Spring 2004 | Graduate

How to Develop "Breakthrough" Products and Services

Course Description

To prosper, firms must develop major product and service innovations. Often, though, they don't know how. Recent research into the innovation process has made it possible to develop "breakthroughs" systematically. 15.356 presents several practical concept development methods, such as the "Lead User Method," where …
To prosper, firms must develop major product and service innovations. Often, though, they don’t know how. Recent research into the innovation process has made it possible to develop “breakthroughs” systematically. 15.356 presents several practical concept development methods, such as the “Lead User Method,” where manufacturers learn from innovative customers. Expert guest speakers present case studies that show the “art” required to implement a concept development method. 15.356 is a half-term subject.
Learning Resource Types
Lecture Videos
Lecture Notes
Written Assignments
Bell curve showing lead users at the tip.
Because they need a solution sooner than most people, lead users have an incentive to create innovative products and services. (Image courtesy of Prof. Eric von Hippel and OCW.)