FuturistU > Tactics > Innovation Tactics > Module 1 / 4

Intro to Innovation Tactics

Instructor: Mark Onufer
Innovation Tactics
Download the Innovation Tactics Trend Report
After interviewing thousands of innovation leaders around the world and asking the question, "How do you innovate?" Trend Hunter received a common response: “Innovation is in our DNA.” That didn’t satisfy us, so we set out on a mission to quantify innovation culture with our Innovation Assessment. When the assessment uncovered that over 50% of organizations didn’t have a process in place to innovate, we decided to help by building out this module to uncover consumer, product and culture innovation tactics.

Business Innovation Specialist and Futurist Keynote Speaker Mark Onufer pulls out the common themes from these interviews with top innovation executives and provides a framework to break down successful, repeatable strategies for innovation on your terms
Related Trend Report: Innovation Tactics
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Insights by Trend Hunter AI

LED Pest
Pest control brands launch smart light-based solutions to attract and eliminate pests
Trend - Brands are releasing UV‑LED pest‑control units that use tuned light spectra to lure insects into traps or kill‑zones, pairing long‑life LEDs with low‑heat designs, and indoor or outdoor formats; offering less-intrusive solutions for consistent pest control in both home and workplace settings.
Workshop Question - How might we develop innovative, less intrusive solutions that leverage our existing technology to meet consumer demands for safer, cleaner, and more efficient pest control?
6.9
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Activity
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Megatrends
Electric Fly Swatters
Electric Fly Swatters
Buyter's Household Electric Fly Insect Trap is an LED Light and Racquet
The Buyter 'Household Electric Fly Insect Trap' is a multifunctional insect control device designed to operate as both an electric fly swatter and an automatic insect trap. The device features a... MORE
AI-Powered Pest Control Lights
AI-Powered Pest Control Lights
Pelsis Showcased its New Digital Insect Light Trap for Foodservice
Pelsis North America has introduced a digital insect light trap that integrates optical sensors and artificial intelligence to detect, classify, and record flying insect activity in food‑safety... MORE
Hospitality Pest Management Systems
Hospitality Pest Management Systems
ORKIN Offers a Full Integrated Pest Management for Hotels
Orkin offers integrated pest management services tailored to the hospitality sector that emphasise proactive prevention, site assessment, and ongoing monitoring under a structured A.I.M. process:... MORE
Solar-Powered Pest Lanterns
Solar-Powered Pest Lanterns
Techko Group Debuts the Solar Zapper Lantern for Pest Control
Techko Group has recently introduced its latest innovation — the Solar Zapper Lantern. The product is positioned as a significant advancement in outdoor pest control technology and is designed to... MORE
Repurposed Shell
Seafood and crustacean shells are being used to craft new materials and items
Trend - Researchers are developing ways to reuse seafood waste, especially crustacean shells, to craft sustainable materials with minimal environmental impact. From building materials to plastic alternatives, these products prevent these commonly disposed of products from polluting and rotting in landfills.
Workshop Question - How can your brand turn a common source of waste into something that benefits other areas of the business?
8
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Megatrends
Seafood Waste Bioplastics
Seafood Waste Bioplastics
Natnov Bioscience Has Turned Seafood Waste into New Bio-Economy Products
Researchers at Natnov Bioscience, an Odisha-based biotech startup backed by the Union government’s Start-up India initiative and the state’s Mukhya Mantri Krishi Udyog Yojana, are advancing new... MORE
Seafood Waste Seed Packaging
Seafood Waste Seed Packaging
'SEAD' Biodegradable Seed Pods are Made with Chitin
The ‘SEAD’ biodegradable seed pods have been designed by Mara Zimmerman as a sustainable solution that reimagines agricultural practices by incorporating more waste materials. The seed... MORE
Shrimp Waste Carbon Materials
Shrimp Waste Carbon Materials
Researchers at the University of Sharjah Craft CO₂-Trapping Material
Researchers at the University of Sharjah have developed a way to repurpose discarded shrimp shells, heads, and trimmings into a high-performance material that captures carbon dioxide. Led by Dr.... MORE
Seafood Waste Materials
Seafood Waste Materials
Qeshour Utilizes Crustacean Shells for its Cutting-Edge Multi-Use Material
A team of 12 university students has created Qeshour, a project that transforms discarded shrimp and fish shells into chitosan—a biodegradable, multi-use material. The project highlights the... MORE
Green Manicure
Interest in sustainable solutions leads to an influx of green nail care products
Trend - Nail care companies are releasing products that prioritize eco-friendly formulas, recyclable packaging, and reusable tools, aiming to reduce impact. These products appeal to consumers seeking stylish nails without the environmental impact of traditional polishes and single-use acrylics.
Workshop Question - How can your brand reduce environmental impact, particularly in spaces that are less explored?
4.5
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Megatrends
Plant-Based Nail Tip Glues
Plant-Based Nail Tip Glues
Green Science Alliance Created Nail Glue Out of Botanical Sources
Japanese research firm Green Science Alliance has created a novel nail tip glue that was derived primarily from botanical sources. The adhesive is designed to solidify when exposed to ultraviolet... MORE
Biodegradable Press-On Nails
Biodegradable Press-On Nails
The Bio-E-Nails Use Common Degradable Ingredients
Bio-e-Nails are a novel innovation in manicure products that employ biodegradable polymers to provide a sustainable alternative to conventional nail enhancements. The formulation of these nails is... MORE
Vegan Manicure Sets
Vegan Manicure Sets
The Manucurist Green System in Poppy Red Offers Eco-Friendly Elegance
Meet the ‘Manucurist Green System in Poppy Red,’ a plant-based, sustainable manicure set redefining at-home nail care. This comprehensive kit offers everything needed for a fast, salon-... MORE
Plant-Based Polish Thinners
Plant-Based Polish Thinners
Green Science Alliance Created Vegan Nail Polish Thinner
A vegan nail polish thinner has been developed by Green Science Alliance Co., Ltd. as a groundbreaking product made entirely from plant-based materials under the trademark ‘Re: soil.’... MORE
Artificial Synergy
Artificial intelligence is used to translate human intent into natural action
Trend - Artificial intelligence has evolved to replicate human biology, helping people regain accessibility, mobility, or even senses that were lost. Utilizing assistive and restorative medical technologies, these systems can understand what the user wants to do and act like a natural extension of the body.
Workshop Question - How can your brand leverage AI to create experiences that feel naturally human?
8.1
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Megatrends
Smart Bionic Hands
Smart Bionic Hands
Kawatek Introduces Next-Gen Smart Bionic Hands With AI-Assisted Precision
Smart bionic hands are taking a leap forward with Kawatek’s introduction of the RYO prosthetic, a next-generation device blending robotics and AI for unprecedented usability. Designed by the... MORE
AI-Powered Outdoor Exoskeletons
AI-Powered Outdoor Exoskeletons
The Hypershell X Ultra Enhances Running, Cycling, Climbing & More
Exoskeletons are commonly associated with industrial tasks and heavy lifting, but the Hypershell X Ultra is redefining their potential by bringing the technology to outdoor adventure, empowering... MORE
True Lightweight AR Glasses
True Lightweight AR Glasses
Meta Unveiled the 'Orion AR' as its First Dedicated AR Wearable
Meta has recently introduced Orion, its first true augmented reality (AR) glasses, which represent a significant advancement in AR technology. Orion combines the aesthetics of regular eyewear with... MORE
Surgically-Implanted Brain Computers
Surgically-Implanted Brain Computers
Neuralink’s First Human Patient Shares a Life-Changing Impact
Neuralink’s first human participant, Noland Arbaugh, has shared how his life has transformed 18 months after receiving the company’s brain-computer interface implant. Arbaugh, who became... MORE
Bionic Knee Prostheses
Bionic Knee Prostheses
Enhancing Mobility with Integrated Tissue Technology
Imagine a world where prosthetic limbs feel as natural as your own. MIT Media Lab is making this a reality with their innovative bionic knee prosthesis, seamlessly integrated into tissue. This... MORE
Printed Footwear
Mainstream footwear brands are incorporating 3D-printing into manufacturing
Trend - Mainstream footwear brands have begun integrating 3D printing into manufacturing, moving beyond niche startups. These products are built with additive processes spanning midsoles, uppers, and concept prototypes to differentiate products, accelerate prototyping, and improve sustainability.
Workshop Question - How can we leverage advanced manufacturing technologies, like 3D printing, to meet consumer demands for personalization, sustainability, and exclusivity in our product offerings?
8.4
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Megatrends
Sleek Footwear Drops
Sleek Footwear Drops
The Zellerfeld x Nike Air Max 1000 Black Drops in Limited Quantities
Nike and Zellerfeld continue pushing sneaker innovation with the upcoming Zellerfeld x Nike Air Max 1000 “Black,” set to release August 19. The drop features a fully 3D-printed, laceless... MORE
3D-Printed Sports Sneakers
3D-Printed Sports Sneakers
Zellerfeld Partnered with Nike to 3D Print New Nike Air Max 1000
The ‘Nike Air Max 1000’ is a 3D-printed reimagining of the iconic Air Max 1, created in collaboration with Zellerfeld, a German footwear company known for its cutting-edge 3D-printing... MORE
3D-Printed Skeletal Sneakers
3D-Printed Skeletal Sneakers
Mahdi Naim Designs the EXOSKYN Silhouette for KORUX
Lyon-based designer Mahdi Naim has designed the EXOSKYN sneaker for up and coming brand KORUX. It is an architectural and sculptural art statement made with a blend of design and technology. Most... MORE
Ergonomic 3D-Printed Sandals
Ergonomic 3D-Printed Sandals
Havaianas x Zellerfeld 3D-Printed Flip Flops Arrive This September
The Havaianas x Zellerfeld 3D-printed flip flops have been debuted as a new collaboration between the iconic sandal brand and the experimental footwear brand that offer a glimpse into the future of... MORE
Eco Tourist
Brands incentivize visitors to adopt sustainable practices and travel activities
Trend - Companies are increasingly launching tourist initiatives to help preserve local environment. This involves visiting natural areas—such as forests, wildlife reserves, or coastal ecosystems —to participate in activities that minimize impact on the environment and maximize benefits for locals.
Workshop Question - How can your brand encourage its consumers to integrate sustainability into their leisure activities?
3.8
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Megatrends
Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
Thailand's Tourism Authority Prioritizes Sustainability
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is spearheading efforts to position Thailand as a global leader in sustainable tourism through innovation and digital transformation. At the ITB Berlin 2025... MORE
Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
Fiji Unveils the 'Loloma Hour' Initiative for the Eco-Conscious
Fiji has introduced Loloma Hour, an innovative sustainability-driven initiative that invites travelers to spend one meaningful hour of their visit contributing to the island’s environmental,... MORE
Resort-Based Conservation Efforts
Resort-Based Conservation Efforts
Sandals Resorts Promotes Coral Restoration in the Caribbean
In observance of World Ocean Month, Sandals Resorts International—together with its philanthropic affiliate, the Sandals Foundation—has announced the strategic expansion of its coral... MORE
Slow Travel Initiatives
Slow Travel Initiatives
Tourism Ireland Launches ‘Ireland Unrushed’ to Inspire Travellers
Tourism Ireland has introduced 'Ireland Unrushed,' a new international campaign designed to inspire travelers to experience the country through a slower, more immersive lens. The initiative... MORE
Sustainability Center
Businesses are hiring full-sized innovation teams to improve sustainability
Trend - Brands are investing in full-size innovation centres that focus on improving sustainability efforts. Often in collaboration with adjacent brands, the goal of these centres is to push the industry forward in both resource and energy efficiency to combat climate change.
Workshop Question - How can your brand leverage innovation teams to enhance sustainability and reduce carbon emissions in its industry?
3.6
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Megatrends
State-of-the-Art Innovation Centers
State-of-the-Art Innovation Centers
Trane Technologies focuses on Sustainable Heating and Cooling
Trane Technologies has inaugurated a new Innovation Center in Oberhausen, Germany, dedicated to sustainable heating and cooling solutions. Spanning 14,000 square meters, this facility highlights... MORE
Sustainable Innovation Centres
Sustainable Innovation Centres
IHI and A*STAR Partnered on Sustainable Manufacturing Innovation
The IHI-ISCE² Sustainable Innovation Centre is a collaborative initiative between IHI Corporation and ASTAR’s Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE²).... MORE
Sustainability-Focused Centres
Sustainability-Focused Centres
Monash University and Tata Steel are Partnering for Innovation
Monash University and Tata Steel have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Centre for Innovation on Environment and Intelligent Manufacturing. This collaboration aims to address... MORE
Sustainable Digital Transformation Partnerships
Sustainable Digital Transformation Partnerships
ENOC Group is Working with SAP and Moro Hub
ENOC Group, a leading integrated global energy player, has announced a partnership with SAP, a global leader in enterprise application software, and Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital DEWA, the... MORE
Printed Panel
Researchers are developing 3D printed materials for architectural construction
Trend - Researchers from universities and construction-focused startups are developing new methods or materials for 3D printing in the architectural space. This is leading to brick, wood, and glass solutions for customizable, scalable home home construction with a reduced environmental impact.
Workshop Question - How can we leverage emerging technologies to create eco-friendly, scalable, and customizable solutions in our industry?
4.5
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Megatrends
Wood-Waste Strong Floor Panels
Wood-Waste Strong Floor Panels
SHoP Architects Develops the SM2ART Nfloor Cassette Panel
Researchers have worked closely with the team at SHoP Architects to create what could be a potential alternative to steel and concrete with the SM2ART Nfloor cassette panel. It is a progressive... MORE
3D-Printed Ceramic Home Facades
3D-Printed Ceramic Home Facades
The Ceramic House in Amsterdam Gets a Ceramic Feature
Rotterdam-based design imprint Studio RAP creates a special facade in Amsterdam dubbed the Ceramic House. The project highlights the unique blend of tradition and innovation as it highlights a... MORE
play_circle_filledLow-Carbon Biomaterial Bricks
Low-Carbon Biomaterial Bricks
Tavs Jorgensen Created Sustainable Extruding Cob Bricks
Researcher Tavs Jorgensen has created a new process that forms cob bricks with the goal of forming low-carbon biomaterial at a more accessible rate. It is used to create bricks that can be stacked... MORE
play_circle_filled3D-Printed Clay Bricks
3D-Printed Clay Bricks
Researchers at UAC in Cairo Developed Customizable Clay Panels for Homes
Researchers at the American University in Cairo (AUC) have developed a 3D-printed clay brick solution aimed at sustainable, eco-friendly construction. This innovative project, a collaboration... MORE
3D-Printed Recycled Glass Bricks
3D-Printed Recycled Glass Bricks
MIT Engineers Created a Solution to Printing Custom Glass Bricks
MIT engineers have developed a new type of reconfigurable masonry using 3D-printed, recycled glass. Leveraging a custom 3D glass printing technology provided by MIT spinoff Evenline, the team has... MORE
Product Analytics
AI tools are being used to assist managers with analyzing product insights
Trend - SaaS companies are launching Artficial Intelligence (AI)-based tools that gather and analyze both customer feedback and product information to provide recommendations for product managers. These tools are designed to automate monotonous tasks and free up time for managerial action.
Workshop Question - How can we leverage AI tools to streamline data analysis and provide actionable insights for our managers?
6.3
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Megatrends
AI Product Insights Tools
AI Product Insights Tools
Zeda IO Offers a Product Discovery Platform and Planning Tool
The Zeda.IO AI tools for product management and product insights are designed to streamline the product discovery and development process by leveraging artificial intelligence to gather and analyze... MORE
Comprehensive Analytics Platforms
Comprehensive Analytics Platforms
Heap by ContentSquare is a Smart Platform for Customer Analytics
The Heap service from Contentsquare is an advanced analytics platform designed to provide comprehensive insights into user behavior across web and mobile applications. By combining Heap’s... MORE
AI-Driven Product Management Platforms
AI-Driven Product Management Platforms
Productboard Pulse Promises to Enhance Efficiency
Productboard has unveiled its latest innovation, Productboard Pulse, which is designed to enhance product management by integrating customer feedback at scale. This AI-driven platform offers product... MORE
AI Product Experience Solutions
AI Product Experience Solutions
Stibo Systems Helps Brands Keep Products Competitive with Data
The Product Experience Data Cloud from Stibo Systems is a comprehensive solution designed to optimize product data management and enhance customer experiences. By consolidating product information... MORE
AI-Driven Consumer Goods Platforrms
AI-Driven Consumer Goods Platforrms
Cpg Radar’s New AI-Driven Platform is Efficient
CPG Radar’s new AI-driven platform is designed to streamline and enhance research and development for companies in the consumer packaged goods sector. By leveraging an extensive dataset that... MORE
Vegan Luncheon
Luncheon meats are increasingly opting for vegan and plant-based formulas
Trend - Popularized during the post-war era for their affordability and shelf stability, luncheon meats are now being adapted to be plant-based. These meat-free alternatives cater to consumers with unique dietary preferences and health-conscious individuals who need accessible, planet-friendly options.
Workshop Question - How can your brand factor in cultural influences when crafting its product/service?
3.9
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Popularity
Activity
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Megatrends
Vegan Luncheon Meat Products
Vegan Luncheon Meat Products
Food Brand 'ANEW' Debuts Three Luncheon Meat Products
OTS Holdings Limited recently launched a new plant-based, ready-to-eat food brand dubbed ANEW. The new company ” aims to deliver quality, nutrition and convenience to consumers with a taste of... MORE
Vegan Luncheon Meat Snacks
Vegan Luncheon Meat Snacks
OmniFoods & 7-Eleven Hawaii Launched Plant-Based Katsu Musubi
Just in time for summer, 7-Eleven Hawaii has teamed up with OmniFoods to launch a new Plant-Based Katsu Musubi. For those unfamiliar, Spam Katsu Musubi is a classic Hawaiian snack made with Spam.... MORE
Soy Protein Luncheon Meats
Soy Protein Luncheon Meats
This Vegan Luncheon Meat Alternative is Free Of Animal Products
Australian lovers of luncheon meat preparations who nevertheless either want to test out or are already fully embracing vegan diets and lifestyles can now enjoy this particular snacking option... MORE
Canned Vegan Meats
Canned Vegan Meats
ANEW Makes Meatless Canned Products from Wheat, Soy Protein & Vegetable Juice
ANEW makes SPAM-style canned vegan meats with wheat, soy protein, vegetable juice and Eucheuma seaweed, and its innovative products are ready to push the envelope after years of research and... MORE