User-driven Innovation Case

Hunter Douglas is the world leader in window coverings and a major manufacturer of architectural products. The international Hunter Douglas portfolio encompasses over 1000 high-end projects. One of their major brands is Luxaflex.

Objective
To make a transition from a predominantly product-focused company to a company where innovation is led by consumer needs. In their mission to come up with innovative solutions for window coverings, Hunter Douglas realised the importance of developing a consumer-focused perspective throughout the organisation.

Participants

• Product managers
• Research and development
• Design and styling
• Account managers

Process

• Customer Interviews in The Netherlands and Spain and writing Customer Profiles
• Creative Workshop
• Selection meeting
• Concept workshop

During the process the team met the consumer, which provided valuable and original insights. These insights contributed to a culture change where innovation could then be centred around the consumer instead of being purely product-focused.
The findings of the consumer interviews were translated into visual posters, which were displayed in different areas throughout the offices of Hunter Douglas.
Furthermore, during the creative workshop the generated ideas were translated into drawings by a professional visualiser. The drawings brought the ideas to life within the organisation.

Results

• An enthusiastic team with a new view and approach towards customers
• Insight in customer-product interaction
• 4 concepts ready for testing and development

Quote
“This process was the starting point for a new era: we have a new perspective on product development, with a strong focus on end user needs through the entire process.”

Sales Support Manager Luxaflex, Hunter Douglas