Design Guidelines and Strategies for Interim Innovation
Authors: An Chen Xin 
Published: June 2024

This study introduces and explores the concept of 'interim innovation' as a novel category of innovation. While sharing some innovative functions, interim innovations demonstrate a unique ability to overcome traditional innovation resistances. Despite their potential significance, scholarly research on interim innovations remains scarce. Thus, this study aims to identify and analyze the patterns and characteristics of interim innovations, with the ultimate goal of developing comprehensive design guidelines and strategic frameworks for effectively fostering and implementing these innovations.Every year, innovative products with unique or advanced functionalities emerge in the market. However, these innovations often face slow adoption due to significant barriers such as high costs and performance uncertainties, with early benefits typically accruing to consumers in premium markets. Addressing this gap, this study introduces the concept of 'interim innovation.' An interim innovation incorporates innovative functions derived from an emerging product and is specifically designed to function as an accessory for an established mainstream product. For instance, an electric stand-capable desk converter, placed on a regular desk, mimics the functionalities of an electrically height-adjustable standing desk. Similarly, an electrical bike conversion kit can transform a standard bicycle into an electric bike. These interim innovations not only replicate the functions of more advanced products but also offer considerable advantages in reducing resistance to innovation and accelerating market diffusion. Despite their potential impact, academic exploration in this field is limited. This study, therefore, seeks to analyze interim innovations and establish detailed design guidelines and strategic approaches to effectively nurture and implement these innovations.This study adopts a case study methodology to explore the under-researched area of interim innovations, focusing on their patterns and characteristics. Interim innovations are categorized into three distinct groups: electric interim products, non-electric interim products, and exceptions. Each case study involves a comparative analysis between an interim innovation and its corresponding innovation. Employing the framework of innovation diffusion theory, the study analyzes these innovations across seven key characteristics: relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, observability, perceived risks, and familiarity. The findings from these case studies are then synthesized to develop practical design guidelines and strategic recommendations for interim innovation development.Interim innovations are a strategic approach to product development. This approach involves integrating emerging innovations as compatible add-ons to existing mainstream products. By combining these two, innovative features are created. This makes interim innovations notable for their cost-effectiveness and high compatibility with mainstream products. Additionally, they provide opportunities for promoting sustainability and inclusion. However, there are risks associated with interim innovations, such as a slight reduction in utility compared to the corresponding emerging innovations and concerns with their aesthetic appeal. This study addresses this gap in research by establishing guidelines and strategies for the development of interim innovation products. It emphasizes enhancing their functionality, compatibility, and appeal within the market.