The three professors discussed the problems faced by engineers from the different perspectives. The first speaker, professor Macelo Ang, shared with us some very creative inventions which made us ponder whether the creations would be accepted by the public. For example, airplane was one of the greatest inventions in the 19th century. Airplanes had quickly become a way of transportation because they made our lives much more convenient. Hence, it was a successful invention. On the other hand, however, the full length umbrella is indeed a better way to shield us from rain, but it may not be accepted by majority of people. Thus, we should ensure that the products invented must suit people’s needs well.
While the need for being creative had been emphasized, we must also be aware of the social factors. As being mentioned by the second professor, the invention of picture phone was definitely a breakthrough during that period. However, it had eventually become a failure because of the fact that users may want to keep their privacy while they are talking over the phones. Therefore, sometimes the products or inventions may not be commonly adopted if we ignore the social external factors.
All in all, as an engineering student, it is important to be creative and innovative at all times. Nevertheless, we must also take into considerations about the external factors which may possibly affect the products. Lastly, as being mentioned by professor Seah, we need to have passion for what we aim to achieve
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Of course, i agree that it is important to be creative especially so in today's context whereby everyone needs are become more complex than ever before. However being creative needs practical approach as well.
ReplyDeleteI think what the second professor is trying to convey about the societal issue boils down to the concept of marketing. It is of paramount importance to perform market research to verify the need for the product. As sales is the primary form of revenue for most companies, i think its best to analyse the marketing strategy needed.
In addition, accounting knowledge is also needed to analyse all cost of production and factor in any finance cost needed for the marketing campaign.
Therefore it becomes clear that creating the product is one issue while selling it is another.
Like many of you said before, creativity does help to make an innovation. Your post summarized the lecture quite precisely and also gave your agreement to the statement.
ReplyDeleteSome inventions also need the time as well as other facilities to be useful. Like the invention of electric bulb, Thomas Edison had to establish an electric company to capitalize the invention of the electric lamp, and he became successful.
Nowadays, it is easier to improve an existent invetion than making a new one. But this could not prevent humans from creating something new. The difference lies within every individual.