Observernetworks …, 6 - 7 July 2004

Observernetworks … the key to the succes of your Innovation Project ?

Come and find out at the Italian Flower Riviera during the International Clustering Workshop from the
Cluster dissemination, marketing & design of Innovation

Imperia, 6 & 7 july 2004

Initiative : IP Hydroplan-EU

Focus
The Dissemination, Marketing & Design of Innovation cluster is focusing on the diffusion and transfer of knowledge and experiences in Innovation processes so as to enhance chances of successful innovation. The cluster focuses in particular on the exchange between those offering and supplying innovative knowledge and expertise, or in other words, between innovative actors and (potential) users, clients and collaboration partners in innovation.

Three Exchange mechanisms were identified that facilitate the exchange process between innovators and users :

(1) Case studies highlighting effective, innovative and interactive exchange processes between innovators and users, and leading to successful innovation;
(2) The application of observer groups during the innovation process
(3) The use of interactive methods and techniques so as to maximise chances of successful interaction between innovators and (potential) users.

The Role of Observers
The actual workshop will concentrate on item (2) : the application of observer groups during the innovation process.

From the early start of his innovation process, the product developer needs to know whether he is on the right ‘track’ with his product innovation. Feedback from potential end-users or other partners is of great importance. Ideally, this feedback should be given in a very early stage of the process and kept ‘a live’ during the product innovation cycle. This is not an easy task, since it actually means that these potential end-users or other partners have to invest their time and need to take up an active front-end-role. Win/win situations need to be identified and clear agreements on the future use of the product may need to be made. Other issues like intellectual property rights (IPR) may also play an important role. On the other hand, having good end-users on board in an innovation project as ‘observer’ will enhance innovation in a very pragmatic and effective way.

The Workshop

During the workshop several of the above mentioned issues will be discussed (cf. agenda) :
· profile of observer (end user, technological partner, business associate, ..),
· role(s) of the observer (within the IP, afterwards, ..),
· how to approach observers and get their interest (IPR, real life cases, Web portal ,…)
· how to set up a twinning (collaboration) agreement (incl. action plan on progress of the innovative product)
· and many others ..

Venue and accomodation
· Venue : Imperia is located at the beautiful Italian Flower Riviera – see
www.comune.imperia.it or www.comune.imperia.it
· Accommodation : it is suggested that you book your room, where the workshop will take place i.e. Hotel Rossini Al Teatro, Piazza Rossini, Imperia www.hotelrossinialteatro.it
Phone number before 10th of June +39 0183 720 000 and ask for Mr. Alberto Tita
Phone number after 10th of June +39 0183 74 000
Or e-mail a.tita@hotel-rossini.it

Practical Information

Target group : Project representatives Innovation Projects

Maximum number of participants : 30
Participation fee : 150 Euro (incl. Diner and Lunch, excl. Hotel accommodation) – provisional fee to be settled at the end of the event.

Please register before June 14th!