Why and how is a 16 year old working with a billion dollar furniture company? Well say thank you TKS 🥳. As cool as it was to work on a project that held meaning in the real world, it was also a daunting task (it’s called the challenge for a reason) The problem statement we were given :
How do we increase our market share as city landscapes are shifting and technologies are evolving by 2030? How can IKEA increase accessibility and sustainability while not compromising on affordability to their customers?
Working on a project with the world's largest furniture retailer, with over 300 shops worldwide and one of the greatest in-store customer experiences, who said it would be easy?
The issue we noticed is that consumers are becoming more value-driven, and they expect efficiency as well as the most bang for their buck. The truth is, IKEA's self-assembly technique is a little inefficient, and with programmable materials, they can improve or revolutionize it.These smart materials are used in programmable materials to allow furniture to self-assemble when prompted by certain stimuli. In addition, we intend to include an augmented reality function with QR codes to replace instruction manuals (saving paper in the process). I had the opportunity to study the regulatory and market environment for appropriate possibilities and constraints, as well as payers and providers, during the consulting process.
Slide Deck: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ZMaXfWfRVdykujcC-uI9IXkndeYOaLoQ9eljLlqDuTM/edit?usp=sharing
When it comes to getting validation/feedback; the more the merrier
The goal is to identify the quickest and least expensive approach to test your assumptions so you can determine whether to pursue the concept or pivot. During the process, validation allows you to confirm your solution, assumptions, and results. Obtaining input from both market and experienced individuals in the sector is more beneficial than you may believe. My team failed to do so in time and made one too many assumptions about the market :(
Manage time before it controls you
Yeah this one’s a little obvious. Time management allows you to prioritise your duties and guarantee that you have adequate time to finish each task. When you're not hurrying to finish anything before a deadline, the quality of your work improves. While my team met our final deadline, it came at the expense of our mental health and sleep.