In this interview, Professor Peter Knorringa discusses his research with the Centre for Frugal Innovation in Africa From into the potential of frugal innovations.
Frugal innovation is the development of smart design solutions that can make relatively advanced products, services or systems affordable for millions of people with a minimum income. It is about (re)designing products or systems, at substantially lower costs and with a longer life, without compromising on functionality. Examples include affordable water treatment equipment, mobile money transfer services (M-PESA) and portable medical instruments with basic diagnostic functions.
What do you do primarily, and how does it have an impact?
“My research is mostly about the various roles and impact of business on development. At the CFIA, we want to involve many different actors in projects and look for the effects of frugal services and products in the widest possible sense. We focus on SDG-related issues, including promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and stimulating innovation.
