Direct Market Research
An important component of the project is performing direct market research. Direct market research proves to the team whether or not its view of the problem is accurate. Sometimes, when a team is too close to the project, it is difficult to see the reality of the problem and its justification. Because the product will eventually be delivered to the buyers and users, the needs and wants of these groups must be evaluated first before investing resources into the development of a new product. The most valuable information often stems from direct studies of the consumer.
Observations
ASMO Inc. will look to see how wheelchair users’ hands interact with the actual wheel itself. If it is found that the wheelchair users’ hands and arms are often in contact with the wheels, it will strengthen the need for a continuous solution that will clean the wheels at all times. If it is found that there is limited interaction between the wheelchair users and the wheels of their wheelchair, the solution will then be modified to clean the wheels only when transitioning from outside to inside, as the dirt from the wheels be tracked into the house and reduce cleanliness.
Interviews
These wheelchair users will not only be asked questions regarding their experiences, but they will also be asked to list their own methods of cleaning their wheelchair wheels. By inquiring about wheelchair user’s current methods, ASMO Inc. will have better knowledge of the competitors and existing methods.
Surveys
The survey, which is currently still accepting responses, was designed to establish both the existence of the problem and the size of the target consumer group. The survey begins with a general information section, then splits into the different relationships a person may have with a wheelchair user, including if the person needs a wheelchair themselves. The questions in each of these sections are similar to each other and inquire further about the wheelchair user’s needs and experiences.
Focus Groups
The opinions of the user help determine whether or not the product has solved the problem. The focus will be functionality and ease of use. The goal is to allow wheelchair users to clean wheels by themselves, so ease of use is critical to the user’s independence. Functionality will also be a topic of discussion, as the primary objective is to clean the wheelchair wheels.