Cross Industry Innovation

Most new products are combinations of already existing information. Technologies, application principles, products or even complete business models can be combined. Basically, a new idea is more of a discovery than an invention.

There are many examples of successful cross-industry innovations:

  • BMW’s iDrive is based on the idea of the joystick from the computer industry
  • the Coca Cola Freestyle beverage dispenser uses dosing technology from medical technology
  • Nespresso’s Aeroccino milk foamer uses the magnetic drive principle of laboratory mixers.
  • The Nike Shox damping system is technologically derived from Formula 1 shock absorbers.
  • The sewing foot of the textile machine manufacturer Bernina uses the optical sensor of a computer mouse.
  • Beiersdorf’s Niveo deodorant “Black & White” uses a substance found in car washes

How can cross-industry innovation be implemented?
With the Model Concept – Combine – Create.

Concept (Why)

In the first step, we bring the problem to a higher level of abstraction. Questions like: What exactly is the problem? What other questions arise from this?

Let’s take the example of BMW iDive: What is the problem? With the use of a screen in the car, the driver’s choice options are significantly increased. A complex combination of buttons (as has been the case up to now), however, distracts the driver from the traffic. What alternative control options are there?

Combine (What If)

In the second step, we look for similar problems and possible solutions in other sectors. Example: In what other situations is a manual control used that does not require special attention but controls complex processes? Answer: The gaming industry. Here the joystick is used to control computer games.

Create (How)

The third step is to find as much information as possible about the combination concept and apply the findings to your own products. Example: How exactly does the control work with joysticks? Are there different methods? Which materials are used?

Applying these three steps yields exciting new ideas, even though the individual steps can of course take a long time.

Now it’s your turn: What do interesting combinations look like for your questions?

With inspiring greetings,
Christian Buchholz