Chemical manufacturer needs to develop new business models
The innovation of chemical industry should not be limited to the development of new products. Chemical manufacturer needs to use the entire chemical ecosystem to develop new business models and discovery methods, explore new markets, and improve innovation efficiency. Chemical manufacturers can innovate in products and new discovery methods, as well as in several other areas.
While chemical manufacturers are increasingly turning to data-driven innovation, they also need to focus on new applications and processes to maintain strong innovation channels. For example, cross category innovation can include:
Application: new products with wider application range, such as repairing human tissue, energy storage, aerospace, mobile future, etc
Business model: close cooperation with customers, cross selling, channel integration; multiple participants to join the platform business
Products and discovery methods: recyclability, green new chemistry, quantum chemistry, multi-scale nano materials, 4D printing materials, AI / ml in material design and discovery
Process: process simulation; 3-D printing; process for reducing carbon emissions; conversion of carbon dioxide, coal and waste into chemicals; and use of biological materials
Chemical manufacturer should also consider their investment allocation. They can’t miss the current trend, but at the same time, they need to be prepared for the coming big trend and innovate faster than their competitors. Internally, the management should promote an open and innovative culture and environment through a fast test, fast failure and repeated mode.
Externally, they need the flexibility to work with a variety of members of the ecosystem, from suppliers and technology partners to customer organizations and consumers. They should also seek new crowdfunding ideas and work with creative providers from concept to product scale.
Here are some questions you should consider.
Now?
Multi pronged Innovation: product, process, operation mode and Application
Increasing R & D expenditures in growth areas (such as electric / automatic driving cars, nutrition, 5G, microbial health, 3D printing, renewable energy).
Develop chemicals and processes with minimal ecological impact
Next (one to three years)
Embedding innovation strategy into enterprise strategy
Design operations to manage the requirements of the new business model
Ensure new products and processes meet UN sustainable development goals
except
Using data to generate new sources of income
Provide a combination of products and services to support the circulation and circular economy of the whole value chain
Using cognitive search and analysis to enhance R & D expertise