Innovation Expert 3. Eric von Hippel

Eric von Hippel is a prominent figure in the study of innovation, particularly known for exploring how users contribute to the development of new products and services. He argues that everyday users often have the insights needed to create innovations that meet their specific needs, which businesses can then adopt. This perspective highlights the value of user-centered design and collaborative innovation. Von Hippel’s work has influenced how companies think about research and development, encouraging them to engage with their customers to harness ideas and improvements that may not come from traditional sources.