This document discusses strategies for designing agrobusiness innovations for wider diffusion. It notes that many new ideas do not follow a logical progression and transitions can be discontinuous. It then discusses open architectures, managed networks, common supplies of critical parts, and shared supplies as design approaches that can facilitate broader diffusion. Finally, it raises the idea of design competitions to redesign local agrobusiness solutions for wider diffusion while maintaining local variety and small batch manufacturing.

1. Agrobusiness Innovations:
Designed for Diffusion
A.S.Rao
http://www.indiainvents.blogspot.in/
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2. cusp theory
• Many new ideas are not contained in a logical
sequence from the starting point of the problem.
The transition from one to another is
discontinuous and cannot be stopped at, in an
intermediate position. The initial orientation
cannot be predicted. It is like speed Vs torque
curve of an induction motor. The curve turns back
on itself at the pull-out torque.
• Generalised models of these types of
discontinuities are named `catastrophe theory’ by
Professor Rene Thorn of the Sorbonne.
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4. Further reading
• `Rising Creative Class in India’ 2007
• http://ssrn.com/abstract=1156012
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5. Design for Diffusion
• Open architecture- Android
• Managed network - windows
• Common supply of critical parts-
Microprocessor
• Shared supply of sub-assemblies- Engine &
gearbox of cars
• Common standards
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6. Agrobusiness innovations
• Local solutions remaining local
• Large variety, manufactured in small lots,
• Design competition to redesign for
diffusion???
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7. Thank you
Contact:
indiainvents@hotmail.com
Hyderabad77, 8886711154
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