From Technology to MVP: Experimentation and Real-World Innovation

Abstract

Turning emerging technology into real-world impact demands structured experimentation, rapid learning cycles, and evidence-based decision-making. In this course, students learn to navigate uncertainty — from framing ambiguous problems to designing validation experiments, building MVPs, and deriving strategic insights. Hands-on projects with Swiss industry partners.

Objective

Structure complex innovation challenges: Analyze and decompose real-world problems at the intersection of technology and market needs, and translate uncertainty into structured, testable development paths. Develop and validate MVPs in real-world contexts: Design and implement Minimum Viable Prototypes and evaluate them with relevant users and stakeholders to generate evidence of value. Design and conduct systematic experimentation: Plan and execute iterative validation cycles, collect and analyze data, and derive evidence-based conclusions to inform decision-making. Lead end-to-end innovation processes in interdisciplinary teams: Take responsibility for innovation projects from problem framing to validated solution, collaborating effectively across engineering, business, and user perspectives. Apply and critically assess innovation methods: Select, apply, and reflect on appropriate frameworks and tools depending on the problem context, technological maturity, and level of uncertainty. Communicate results and justify decisions to stakeholders: Present and defend solutions using structured, data-driven arguments tailored to industrial partners and decision-makers.

Content

Structuring early-stage innovation at the intersection of emerging technologies and market needs is a core challenge in engineering and R&D. This course introduces the fundamentals — how to bridge technology and real-world applications. Industry Collaboration Projects are conducted in collaboration with leading Swiss companies. Previous partners have included V-ZUG, Audi Formula 1 Project, Bossard Group, VAT Group, and Bühler Group. New partners join each course iteration. Format The course is delivered as a three-week full-time (120 hours) block. It alternates between concise theoretical inputs, guided exercises, and the application of methods to open-ended, real-world problems. This structure enables students to progressively transfer concepts into practice. Problem Framing A central element of the course is the problem definition phase. This reflects the reality of early-stage innovation, where identifying the right problem is as critical as developing the solution. Coaching and Feedback The course features an intensive coaching model with a 4:1 student-to-coach ratio (36 students, 8 experienced coaches). Teams receive continuous, detailed feedback throughout the program. Coaches actively support teams during self-directed work phases and facilitate the integration of methodological concepts into practical application. Project Work and Outcomes Students work in interdisciplinary teams on industry challenges. The course culminates in final team presentations, where participants present validated prototypes, supporting data, and key learnings. Integration into the Exploration Lab The course serves as an entry point into the ETH Exploration Lab program. Participants may continue their projects through a four-month industry internship and/or a semester or Master’s thesis in collaboration with Swiss industrial partners.

Resources