Innovative solutions to business challenges

University of Leeds students have been praised by industry experts for their creative solutions to real world business problems.

As a part of Leeds University Business School’s (LUBS) award winning Innovation Thinking and Practice module, teams of students worked together on a series of commercial challenges and pitched their solutions to an expert panel. 

The briefs were co-developed with industry and included sectors ranging from health and flood management to banking and consultancy. Other subjects included software, charity, councils, vets, circular fashion and energy.
 

Engaged learning such as this changes the trajectories of students and shows the impact we have when we work together.

The module tasked students to develop a prototype solution and a value-based pitch that could be presented to experts from local, national and international companies. 

Oliver Hague, a third year Computer Science with AI student, said: “I’ve learned a lot from this module through taking an iterative approach to design.

“Halfway through the module, we were told to stop what we are doing and start from scratch. This is like in business when a project takes a different turn.

“Whilst our team was surprised and a bit demoralised at the thought of starting again, it actually helped the team refine our idea. Our team realised our previous concept was confusing and this helped us to work on better ideas and concept.

“It is vital to have teamwork in this module as most careers are working within a team of people. Getting this experience is really valuable and helpful for the future.”

Oliver hopes to pursue a career in the tech industry and wants to work as a part of a team focused on innovation. 

Michael Cusack, Head of Sustainability at ACS Clothing, a specialised rental fulfilment and clothing renewal company, provided feedback on Oliver’s team’s presentation. He said: “I really enjoy working with students, they have a fresher perspective and I like to be challenged by them. 

“When students leave University, they mostly go into practical business and the earlier they can adopt the practical aspects the better. I like this module as it’s good to be novel and try different things. 

“Students learn a lot of skills from this project. I’m always pitching and articulating ideas which is a life skill that they can use in their careers moving forward.”

Professor Jeff Grabill, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Student Education at the University of Leeds, added: “Each year, I see examples of strong collaborations with business, government, and third sector enterprises, and of course, we all see remarkable creativity from students in their presentations and prototypes. 

“Engaged learning such as this changes the trajectories of students and shows the impact we have when we work together.”

The panel of experts included representatives from KPMG, NHS, First Direct, Vet-Ai, Leeds City Council, Inspire North, Anaplan, Gemell Technology, Andal, Ticketi, Edge Analytics and Ovo Energy.

Ian Smith, Director of craftscale, said: “I love the innovation and imagination that all the students put into their work. It was particularly inspiring this time that they were thinking really big and what they have learned will stand them in good stead in their future careers.” 

Students were offered a free idea viability assessment via the SPARK scheme to assess and verify how their ideas could be progressed. 

Dr Lena Jaspersen, Lecturer in Innovation and Qualitative Research Methods, said: “It was incredible to watch our students shine in front of the VIP panel. Pitching to such senior experts is no easy feat, but every student stepped up and delivered with confidence. 

“This experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, giving our students a strong headstart as they move into their graduate careers and studies next year.”

Dr Sanaz Sigaroudi, Senior Lecturer (Teaching and Scholarship) in Strategy and Innovation, added: “Seeing students transform as they tackle real industry challenges in diverse teams is a joy. Their confidence, creativity and growth, during pitch presentations reminds me why I love what I do!”

Further information

For more information, please contact Rebecca Hurrey in the University of Leeds Press Office at r.hurrey@leeds.ac.uk.