Need-Based Product Development Targeted at Export Markets: Some Challenges and Lessons Learned

Developing countries such as the Philippines, Malaysia, Panama, Indonesia and rural areas of India have farmers who are able to breed small numbers of poultry, but unable to tap into the more productive and profitable market of artificial breeding. Typically farms are situated away from power-lines or a reliable power source, but are exposed to plenty of sunshine. This project was undertaken to meet the need for a solar-heated poultry egg incubator for energy efficiency and affordability. The case study presents the challenges, solutions and important lessons learned when creating a new product for export markets. The project's client received several enquiries from farmers in developing countries for a large incubator. This formed the brief for the industry case study carried out at the university, using a new educational model of partnership between the university, industry and emerging markets