They are, all four, successful examples of the 'jugaad' method of innovation.
Under economic pressure you will often find that the most efficient and low-cost 'quick fixes' are invented by creative, yet frustrated individuals. It is in that particular state of mind that one can truly concentrate on the essence of a (design- or other) challenge and, well, see the light of true invention I suppose.
The innovation philosophy is now quickly finding its way to the big corporations' board rooms, where it is hailed as the next big thing after Kaizen, Six Sigma, Lean Design and Zero Tolerance (well, most of those anyway).
Learn all about the 'jugaad' method of innovation by reading this entertaining article. Once you get the knack of it, all you have to do is scale up your brilliant idea and the world is your oyster; that big juicy global market that doesn't even know it's there - and big bucks will come flowing your way !
But I have this uneasy feeling it won't be that easy. The scaling up bit isn't for sure.
At least it's encouraging to read that in these days of poverty and need, there is light at the end of the tunnel - even though it's a long one. Parental guidance advised when venturing through that tunnel - especially when having a go at automotive design challenges...
...particularly those concerning ergonomics, electric circuitry or suspension componentry !
- G
@Gurt: I guess this one is over the fence? Good to see some "alternative" stuff around the petrol minded minds here on carfreax (me included). Will read the article later, but thanks for leaving the beaten tracks. Keep them coming!
Posted by: Mattijs | 2009.12.28 at 12:46 AM