Increasingly, Western companies are developing products in countries like China and India, and then distributing them globally. For example, GE developed an ultra-low-cost ultrasound for rural China which is now marketed in over 100 countries. Logitech developed an affordable mouse for the China market which sells for (the Chinese equivalent of) $19.99 and which they now sell in Europe and the U.S. Deere & Company developed a small tractor, the 35-horsepower Krish, built and priced specifically for the India market, competing head on with the Indian market leader, Mahindra & Mahindra. Deere now uses Krish-style features in products sold all over the world. We call this phenomenon reverse innovation — any innovation that is adopted first in the developing world, and then later in the developed world.
The $2,000 Car
Increasingly, Western companies are developing products in countries like China and India, and then distributing them globally. For example, GE developed an ultra-low-cost ultrasound for rural China which is now marketed in over 100 countries. Logitech developed an affordable mouse for the China market which sells for (the Chinese equivalent of) $19.99 and which they […]
March 12, 2012
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HBR Learning
Innovation and Creativity Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Innovation and Creativity. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Unlock your team's curiosity and willingness to take smart risks.