Design for "Base of the Pyramid"

The exploding population of the developing nations presents innumerable possibilities for innovative businesses and ideas. Especially in the urban context where needs and demands are changing so rapidly forward thinking investors can tap into this market of "bottom of the pyramid" creating a symbiotic partnership.

Design for the Base of the Pyramid (DBOP) is an effort from the Illinois Institute of Technology's Institute of Design. Initiated in 2003, this project explores "human-centered design strategies and concepts for new products, services and businesses capable of generating sustainable economic improvement in the lives of people living in the vast base of the global economic pyramid."

The approach is focused on charity-based solutions, but on harnessing the entrepreneurial spirit found in urban slums coupled with the financial support and energy of private investment.

You can read the Full report (PDF) here.

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