2. Consolidate the questioning by defining the user objective(s) to be achieved.

You now have a fairly clear vision of the major issues to be addressed, the objectives to be achieved... Now you need to specify the user objective to be reached. It's the only expression that doesn't focus on the means, but on the result. It's the only expression that allows all those involved in the innovation to share a common understanding of the innovation's purpose. This expression of the user objective focuses on the goal, and leaves room for all the investigations required to achieve it (technological roadmap and other tools available to engineers).

• You need to express this user objective in terms of benefits of use, as this is what will enable you to assess the relevance of your research. At this stage, it's a question of the meaning of your innovation. Ask yourself what your proposal will mean to the end customer, and find a clear...