Note On Lead User Research describes how the potential of alternative uses of research can be determined methodically. Lead Users are defined as consumer groups who lead with respect to cutting edge applications of important markets and technical trends. Stages of a Lead User study are discussed which include project planning, trends/needs identification, preliminary concept generation, and final concept generation.
Questions
What are the characteristics of Lead Users?
What are the three types of Lead Users?
What resource commitments are required for the level of innovation that will support the alternative market?
How can Stage II: Trends/Needs Identification be conducted in a quantitative and scientific fashion?
Why is ‘Testing the Concepts’ not a stage of the Lead User Study?