Organizations integrate the voice of the consumer into their offerings
Implications - The concept of open-source coding has risen in popularity as a demand for STEM skills increases. This idea is being utilized by brands through marketing, products, and more. At their core, open-source products and services invite collaboration from the crowd; a concept that fares well with consumers seeking a willingness to change, and a personal connection from their brands.
Workshop Question - How can you create more personal, authentic connections with your consumers?
Trend Themes
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Open-source Software — More companies are adopting open-source coding and software to invite collaboration from the crowd. Disruptive innovation opportunity: Invite crowdsourcing and engage participants to build a product for your brand.
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Interactive Displays — More companies are building interactive displays that allow for endless possibilities in games, drawings, and shapes, and are open-sourcing these technologies. Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop interactive displays that allow for new and exciting experiences for users and incorporate them into existing business models.
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Sustainable Fashion — The fashion industry is being forced to adopt environmentally sustainable processes, and Levi's Eureka Innovation Lab is an example of how open-source collaboration can lead to sustainable denim production. Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create sustainable products that also value social consciousness, which can appeal to an ever-growing market of socially conscious consumers.
Industry Implications
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Film and Animation — Open-source software like Pixar's Universal Scene Description is revolutionizing the animation industry by enabling animators to use one application instead of many. Business professionals can look to create similar software or explore collaboration opportunities with existing open-source platforms to simplify their production process.
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Food and Beverage — Wheelys Bicycle Cafe allows for customizable designs and a unique experience for consumers. Open-sourcing these models allows for increased participation and engagement from consumers. Invest in technology that fosters participation and engagement in order to create a unique experience for consumers.
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Technology — Companies like Google are open-sourcing their software and products, allowing developers and coders to see and understand new programming techniques. Invest in open-source programming and development to foster a more accessible technological world that prioritizes collaboration.
