Innovation and Product Development for Aging Users

elated to our research in aging societies and innovation, Klaus Iffländer of the TUHH innoage research team assisted in developing criteria for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that allow them to understand and approach the concept "Design for All" in a business context. The team consisted of the TUHH's institute for Innovation Marketing, the two consultancies grauwert and NeumannConsult as well as EDAD, a German association promoting the advantages of "Design for All".

Tasked by the German federal ministry for economic affairs and energy the team conducted several interviews and workshops with experts of the following industries: health (including healthcare and medical technology), sanitary (e.g. products for the bathroom), domestic applicances (large and small electrical appliances), furniture and hardware and plastic products. Through this methodology they identified criteria, success factors and instruments that allow a stepwise integration of the concept "Design for All" into SME's development processes.