Applied Ideas Online is an e-commerce solution which links designer-makers with manufacturers and markets across Australia. The portal will deliver e-training and other services to designer-makers and manufacturers which will enable them to work collaboratively to develop new products for the Australian marketplace.

An innovative e-portal

In May 2006 Senator Helen Coonan, Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the announced Craftsouth will receive $198,500 from Round 14 of DCITA's Information Technology Online (ITOL) program to develop Applied Ideas Online - an innovative e-portal offering services to arts and craft professionals.

"Craftsouth and Applied Ideas are delighted to be developing a national e-portal from South Australia - which will assist the sustainability of the Australian craft and design industry, with flow-on effects for the manufacturing and retail sectors nationally

The Honourable Chris Schacht
Chair of Applied Ideas

Applied Ideas Online is made possible thanks to

It is envisaged Applied Ideas Online will deliver the following elements of the initial program:

1. Product Commercialisation Workshop
2. Brokerage Services
3. Networking Opportunities (including info on resources, online news and forums)
4. Showcase (including case studies and product profiles)
5. Job Notification and Linking Service
6. Business Services and Management Solutions (including legal issues, IP and patent info)
7. E-Commerce Capabilities
8. Other elements specified by members of the Applied Ideas Consortium.

The outcomes of the 'proof of concept' have been identified as:

• Supporting Australian craft and design practitioners;
• Providing easy to access business advice and support for designer-makers;
• Providing designer-makers, manufacturers and retailers with an easy to use service that links suitable parties, provides training, and e-commerce business development services that add value to their businesses.

Consultation with Applied Ideas Consortium members and supporters to frame the direction and scope of Applied Ideas Online is currently underway. This input will ensure Applied Ideas Online is able to deliver a service which meets the needs of designer-makers, manufacturers and markets and enables them to work together in a collaborative manner through an online portal.

Applied Ideas Pty Ltd  comprises of:

1. Product Commercialisation Workshop
   Brings designer-makers and manufacturers together to learn about what each group offers the other and through a highly collaborative program enables the development of new products which are commercially viable in a wide range of markets.
2. Brokerage Service
   Enabling designer-makers, commissioning clients and manufacturers to identify suitable development partners, and assist the process of collaborative product development - from design to market.
3. Showcase
   Promoting work developed through the Applied Ideas Product Commercialisation Workshop, as well as products developed through the Applied Ideas Brokerage service.
4. Network Events
   Providing a forum for collaborative teams to present their outcomes, discuss market trends and opportunities, new materials, technologies and product development resources, as well as business and legal issues. Network members are encouraged to invite potential partners to foster networking opportunities.
5. Applied Ideas Online
   Providing an online showcase of the Applied Ideas program to national and international audiences. This would include designer-maker, manufacturer and retailer profiles, promotion of the product commercialisation workshop and brokerage service, and products developed through the workshop and brokerage service.

If you are interested in joining in the Applied Ideas Online Website please contact Project Manager - Jane Gronow by filling out the feedback form below.