This is a case study showing how innovation can be brought to a long-established profession.

Appropriate Subject Area(s):

Entrepreneurship, marketing

Key Questions to Explore:

• What factors give rise to innovation?

Introduction to lesson and task:

This is a case study of an innovative start up in a well-established sector.

Action (lesson plan and task):

• As a class, discuss how Airbnb and Uber have brought innovation to an established sector.  Brainstorm other businesses that have brought innovation to an established sector.
• Discuss  what is typically the result of innovation.
• Distribute the article for reading.
• In pairs, have students role-play the interviewer and Nicole.
• In pairs, have students discuss: what resonated with her answers?
• Discuss what innovation Nicole has brought to the established sector.
• Ask why consumers would be interested in this innovation.
• Ask why photographers would be interested in this innovation.

Consolidation of Learning:

• Using a Venn diagram, compare and contrast the factors that gave rise to innovation for Nicole Smith and for another innovation in a different sector, such as Second Closet (featured in this lesson plan in November):
  • http://nextgenedition.com/toronto-startup-second-closet-aims-to-uber-ize-self-storage-2/

Success Criteria:

• Students understand factors that give rise to innovation.

Confirming Activity:

• In groups of four, have students brainstorm other industries that could diversify through innovation.