Planning funds for ´Modules for building DIY houses´
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | UsersInnovate AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 50 000 |
| Project duration | June 2013 - August 2013 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The primary purpose is to investigate whether it is possible to make a business model based on innovation contests. Specifically, the contests are to generate solutions for how to construct a house with a new construction system. Scientifically it is interesting to learn about how to make contests as business models, where there is no internal R&D department. This project will provide insights on how practitioners can maximise success when setting up a platform where innovation contest is the R&D department and where sales are made directly from solutions in a contest.
Results and expected effects
We achieved critical learning for innovation managers (and user innovation scientists) on how to make a business model where innovation contests are a core part of a business model. See separate document with insights. From our research, we have now deeper knowledge of user needs in relation to reasons for acquiring new houses and needs related to making affordable, eco-friendly and energy-saving houses. We will also achieve learning of making contests for professionals vs. amateurs, amateurs vs. analogue solvers and open/collaborative contests vs. closed/competitive contests.
Approach and implementation
We will make 2 contests instead of 1 for 3-4 target groups instead of 1. We plan using virtual game as user toolkit instead of physical toolkit. We tweeked scope to both get solutions for the basic module/house frame, and to get final house designs: Contest 1 especially is linked to commercialisation by UsersInnovate Sweden AB. Contest 1 (Nov-Feb): Competition-based, for building engineers/architects to innovate on fundamental house modules and frame. Contest 2 (Mar-May): Collaboration-based via community to get final house designs from game-players and DIY house builders.