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Samsung's IoT Journey: From Concept to Smart Domestic Appliances
Applicable Industries
- Consumer Goods
- Electronics
Applicable Functions
- Product Research & Development
The Challenge
Samsung, a global leader in technology, had a vision to connect all of its domestic appliances to the Internet of Things (IoT) by 2020. However, the company faced a significant challenge in translating this ambition into a compelling consumer proposition. The task was not just about integrating IoT technology into appliances, but also about understanding how this technology could enhance product performance and meet consumer needs. The challenge was to research market opportunities, generate and validate ideas for new domestic appliances that leveraged IoT. This required a deep understanding of the technology landscape, relevant applications for IoT, and how these could be linked to consumer needs and behaviours.
About The Customer
The customer in this case study is Samsung, a multinational conglomerate headquartered in South Korea. Samsung is known for its wide range of products, including smartphones, televisions, and home appliances. The company is recognized globally for its commitment to innovation and technology advancement. In this project, Samsung aimed to leverage the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance the performance of its domestic appliances, thereby providing a compelling proposition to its consumers. The company's goal was to connect all of its domestic appliances to the IoT by 2020, demonstrating its commitment to technological innovation and consumer-centric product development.
The Solution
Samsung engaged with global product and marketing teams to conduct extensive consumer research in six globally representative markets. The research was not limited to standard quantitative and qualitative panels; it also included ethnographic studies to understand the usage of domestic appliances by families. The insights from this research were combined with technology and market trends to identify opportunities for product innovation. Through fast-paced, design thinking-led workshops, a long list of 40 concepts was created and refined down to a short-list of eight. This process led to the creation of the 'Family Hub' fridge concept, which Samsung unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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