Project Description
In our fifth semester, we focused on large-scale project management, learning about innovation management and advanced project management techniques. Our task was to manage a project that addressed a business problem, involving collaboration with students from electronics and mechatronics programs, totaling around 10-15 students per project group.
Our project involved designing a solar-powered product to address specific needs. We developed an affordable solar-powered router and charger for travellers in remote areas, providing a combined solution for both power and internet connectivity during their journeys.
Project Methodology
1. Ideation:
- Facilitated brainstorming sessions to generate and evaluate ideas, ultimately selecting a single project concept.
2. Requirement Specification:
- Defined project specifications based on available resources, including competencies, budget, and timeline.
3. Concept Design:
- Completed mechanical design, 3D-printed prototype parts, and assembled electronic components.
4. Business Analysis:
- Conducted SWOT Analysis, Porter’s Five Forces, and Marketing Mix to evaluate market positioning.
- Gathered feedback from users at the TEK Expo to efine the product.
5. Go-to-Market Strategy:
- Developed the final go-to-market concept, incorporating insights from user testing and business analysis.
Project Contributions
1. Project Management:
- Managed work task breakdown, budget, and created a Gantt chart for project scheduling.
2. Stakeholder Management:
- Streamlined communication between sub-groups, including electronics, software, and mechanical teams.
3. User Research:
- Conducted interviews to gather user insights and analyzed the data.
4. Guideline Design:
- Designed a user guideline for the final product.
5. Business Analysis:
- Performed SWOT Analysis and Porter’s Five Forces for strategic planning.
Key Competencies Developed
1. Business Case Development:
- Created a comprehensive business case to support product development.
2. Project Management:
- Gained hands-on experience in managing large-scale projects, including scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
3. Collaboration:
- Acted as a sparring partner for mechanical and electrical designers, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration.
4. User Market Research:
- Conducted and analyzed user research to ensure the product met market needs.
5. Market Analysis:
- Analyzed market trends and competitive factors to refine the product strategy.