Technology Entrepreneurship (ENT600) : Deuter Spot GmbH / Fathin Fatihah Mohamad Sazali

This case study was assigned to research and develop how a company design, manufactures, and markets their product. In this research, I have chosen to do an investigation on one of the most well-known recreational backpacks manufacturer which is Deuter. When it comes to outdoor activities such as hiking, it is important to ensure basic features when hiking such as the air-ventilation system, attachment system for hiking poles, padded shoulder straps, and so on. The key factors that the company focus on are fit, ventilation and function when building a backpack. Deuter managed to innovate the first patented fully ventilated backpack with a mesh back system. The outdoor activities sure are exhilarating and fun but sometimes even a good product can be lacking something. It is important to make sure that safety is complied when using them. Most of the products manufactured are basically good enough to use but then one model caught my eye which is the Speed Lite 24. Even though this model has a lot of advantages, there are some that needs to be modified in order be a better backpack that satisfies. Firstly, the backpack may lose its sustainability to extreme weather. Next, the safety of user cannot be guaranteed if one uses them. Thirdly, one backpack might burst suddenly so we need a more secure zipper system. Other than that, in case of doing activity near aquatic surroundings, there is no safety features for that. Lastly, the backpack’s shoulder straps can cause discomfort and pain to neck, shoulder and back. By studying the features available, some ideas can be developed from a miniscule of lacking features such as; integrated rain cover in the backpacks. Next idea is an embedded distress beacon that can produce loud sounds and sends transmitter of their precise location when in emergency or disaster happens. Third idea is a unique pattern of zipper so that they can be attached tightly even without using lock and key. Another idea is a detachable inflatable life jacket that can save individuals from drowning as it inflates when immersed in water. Lastly, a horizontally adjustable shoulder straps to reduce discomfort. In a nutshell, it is important to do research and development in this type of products so that none of accidents occur and to also satisfy enthusiasts that enjoys outdoor activities and other customers as well.