CIP Projects Spring 2025

Sponsor Introduction: 

Industrias Guidi (hereinafter IG) is a 64 years old auto parts maker in Argentina. The company supplies stamped and welded parts for Toyota (over 90% of IG sales), Ford and Mercedes Benz produced out of two industrial sites in Buenos Aires Province (Burzaco and Zarate), with over 600 employees and sales rounding 130 million dollars a year. IG is well known in the local market for its operational excellence, focus on continuous improvement and a very strong customer orientation, having been awarded many times as Supplier of the Year by the main customer (Toyota) 

Project Name:  

Exploring products and markets diversification taking advantage of managerial skills   

Project Categories:  

• Market (e.g., custom needs, value proposition, market size, positioning)  

• Technology (e.g., literature review, tech-economics and innovation eco-system) 

• Business model (e.g., transaction structure, stakeholders)   

• Others 

Project Description:   

WHY (e.g., motivation): Even if IG enjoys right now a strong financial position together with high sales and production volumes, over 90% of its sales are addressed to one unique customer (Toyota). This situation implies a strategic weakness. Therefore, the search for diversification is a must. Besides this consideration, IG Board and managerial team are fully convinced that Innovation is key to secure the future of the company, and diversification – of markets, products or both – is key on that purpose. One additional motivation should be the chance to gain foreign markets as a way to offset the recurrent turmoil of local economy. Besides the product/market consideration, process improvement through the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and/or related techniques are also being explored. 

WHAT (e.g., scope): The purpose of the research should be to help in the identification of combined innovation and diversification opportunities, which can be related to: 

• New products for the current market, with different technologies that can be achieved through joint ventures or technical agreements with foreign auto parts companies 

• Same or similar products for new markets, local or foreign 

• Different products for different markets; not necessarily related to the automotive industry; but supported on current – and proved – managerial skills and organizational capabilities 

• New process to produce same or similar parts by using (AI), opening the chance to enhance market share. [Optional] 

• New process for different parts and different markets [Optional] 

HOW (e.g., methods): Primary and secondary research on markets and products should be needed to provide adequate answers to the above-mentioned scopes. Knowledge of current situation in terms of process and customers relationship is necessary to support the research 

WHO (e.g., qualification): Open minded students will be supported by IG team members to succeed 

Deliverables:

A PowerPoint presentation with supporting materials, which contains:

• Automotive market analysis of new trends in terms of products and materials 

• Benchmark of existing technologies to deliver current products 

• List of potential technology owners to pursue an eventual technical agreement 

• List of achievable products and technologies out of the automotive market 

Sponsor Introduction: 

Menon & Menon Ltd, established in 1954 by Mr. Chandran Menon in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India, specializes in manufacturing intricate automotive grey iron castings, particularly cylinder blocks and heads. Over the past five decades, the company has expanded its capabilities to include both casting and machining of these components to meet diverse customer requirements.   

In 2014, Menon & Menon inaugurated a state-of-the-art foundry in Kagal, near Kolhapur, effectively doubling its production capacity and enhancing its ability to serve both domestic and international markets. The company supplies castings to nearly all major Indian automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and has established significant export capacities. The company’s clientele includes prominent names such as Mahindra & Mahindra, John Deere, Tata Motors, and Ashok Leyland. Notably, Menon & Menon has been a key supplier to Mahindra & Mahindra, providing high-quality machined cylinder blocks essential for the development of diesel engines 

Project Name:  

Market Feasibility and Business Strategy for UAV Development for a new entity for Menon and Menon Limited 

Project Categories:  

• Market (e.g., custom needs, value proposition, market size, positioning)  

• Technology (e.g., literature review, tech-economics and innovation eco-system) 

• Business model (e.g., transaction structure, stakeholders)   

• Others 

Project Description:   

WHY (e.g., motivation): Problem Statement: Menon and Menon Limited is planning to enter the global UAV market with a focus on developing UAVs which will have a payload capacity of up to 500 kg, a speed of up to 300 km/h, and will feature fix wing, Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) capabilities. The company aims to position its product competitively in the international market by identifying key factors that will influence its success. This project aims to evaluate market feasibility, develop a detailed business model, and outline a strategic plan for product development, launch, and growth along with establishing a roadmap for setting up the business entity and assembling the team. The focus is to conduct a thorough market and technical feasibility analysis for the company’s new UAV initiative.   

WHAT (e.g., scope): Students are required to approach this as a real-world business challenge and deliver insights across several key domains. As part of this project, your task is to analyze the potential business opportunity for developing this UAV in India and sell it worldwide. The company is open to setting up a new and a different business entity in any country that helps in its fast track growth and attract global talent by offering incentives and perks. The goal is to explore key aspects of the product, market, and business, considering factors such as market demand, product features, pricing, cost structures, revenue models, and supply chain logistics.   

HOW (e.g., methods): You are required to address the following points in your analysis: 

• Market Understanding: What are the most suitable countries for launching operating these UAVs with the company’s specifications (Payload and speed)? 

• Target Users and Customer Persona: Define the ideal customer segments (civilian, commercial, military, etc.); Assess the needs, preferences, and pain points of these customer segments; Create a customer persona that outlines the specific needs and characteristics of potential users 

• Use Cases: What are the most promising use cases for such UAVs in various industries (e.g. agriculture, logistics, aerial surveying, etc.)? 

• Competitor Analysis: Analyze competitive landscape: Who are the key players in this space? How are these companies positioning their products in terms of technology, pricing, and target markets? 

• Product Features and Specifications: Analyze the technical specifications in terms of payload capacity, range, speed, and safety standards as per the laws that govern UAV manufacturing in India. 

• Cost Structure and product pricing: Estimate the development, production, and operational costs involved in building and maintaining this UAV. What should be the ideal price point for this UAV to make it competitive in the global market? 

• Regulatory Landscape: What regulations govern the use of such UAVs, both in India and internationally? 

• Technological Considerations: What are the latest technological advancements in UAVs with payload capacity of up to 500kg, and recommend the most suitable options that can be integrated into the product to offer a competitive advantage? 

• Revenue Model 

• Supply Chain and Manufacturing 

• Business Entity Set Up

WHO (e.g., qualification): Technically minded students who have both experience in engineering and business modeling  

Deliverables: A PowerPoint presentation with supporting materials, which contains: Market analysis and country selection rationale; Competitor Analysis; Detailed customer personas and target segments; Recommended product features; Proposed use cases and applications; Recommended Pricing strategy; Supply chain and manufacturing strategy; Recommended entity set up and talent retention program; Go-to-market strategy; Overview of relevant regulations and compliance strategies; A business plan with cost and revenue projections. 

Sponsor Introduction:

Meta Platforms, Inc., formerly known as Facebook, is a leading technology company shaping the future of connectivity and virtual interaction. Founded in 2004, Meta has transformed from a social networking platform into a global powerhouse driving innovation in artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR). Through its Reality Labs division, Meta is at the forefront of VR technology, pioneering products like the Quest VR headsets and Horizon Worlds platform. These efforts aim to create immersive experiences that redefine how people connect, work, and play. In 2023, Meta invested billions in VR and AR research and development, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to advancing the metaverse and unlocking new possibilities for human interaction in virtual environments. 

Project Name: Optimization of Development Strategy and Efficiency for MR Optical Technology 

Project Categories:  

• Market (e.g., custom needs, value proposition, market size, positioning)  

• Technology (e.g., literature review, tech-economics and innovation eco-system) 

• Business model (e.g., transaction structure, stakeholders)   

• Others 

 Project Description:  

WHY (e.g., motivation): Mixed Reality (MR) is an emerging market requiring significant technological advancements to meet user experience expectations. This project seeks to streamline the development workflow, enhance collaboration, and establish effective milestone checkpoints. By optimizing collaboration among Meta’s internal teams and external industry partners, we aim to ensure timely delivery and high-quality outcomes in MR technology development. 

WHAT (e.g., scope): (see deliverables section below) 

HOW (e.g., methods): Primary and secondary market research 

WHO (e.g., qualification): Technology and management consulting background    

Deliverables:

Prepare a PowerPoint presentation proposing a unified framework for effective collaboration among internal and external stakeholders. The presentation will include: (1) identification of gaps in the technology development process, (2) tools and practices to optimize development workflows, (3) strategies and channels for enhancing communication and collaboration between Meta’s internal teams and external partners, and (4) a development roadmap with clearly defined milestones and success metrics to support high-quality MR technology development. 

Sponsor Introduction:

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is a world renowned academic pediatric health system, caring for children from the Philadelphia metropolitan area, as well as drawing patients from all 50 states and around the world. As the nation’s first hospital devoted exclusively to the care of children (founded in 1855), CHOP has been the birthplace for countless breakthroughs and dramatic firsts in pediatric medicine. In fiscal year 2022, CHOP employed nearly 17,000 people, provided care at over 50 locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and generated over $3.8 billion in annual revenue.

Project Name: New revenue diversification opportunities for clinical services   

Project Categories:  

• Market (e.g., custom needs, value proposition, market size, positioning)  

• Business model (e.g., transaction structure, stakeholders)   

• Others 

Project Description:  

WHY (e.g., motivation): Health systems are facing an unprecedented degree of margin pressure, stemming in large part from payor contracts not keeping up with healthcare inflation, particularly wages. CHOP, like most health systems, relies almost entirely on revenue from direct patient care occurring within the four walls of our facilities. Relying too much on any one source of income is risky, and health systems need to find ways to ensure a positive margin without sacrificing patient care. One way to do this is through diversification of revenue streams. CHOP has several initiatives already in-flight, but would like to explore further opportunities to expand clinical services in new ways and through new business models.  

WHAT (e.g., scope): (see deliverables section below) 

HOW (e.g., methods): Primary and secondary market research 

WHO (e.g., qualification): Market analysis, business planning and/or management consulting background    

Deliverables:  

• Develop a framework to evaluate the relative attractiveness/chances of success from a short-list of potential new revenue streams for clinical services (short-list to be co-developed between CHOP & Wharton Team) 

• Develop a holistic set of primary and secondary research methods to gather information, including market scans, competitor analysis, etc. to determine where CHOP is uniquely positioned to fill market gaps or provide superior service to what’s currently available (this work could potentially reveal additional revenue opportunities from the pre-identified shortlist) 

• Create a presentation (likely PowerPoint) which (a) summarizes key findings/trends, (b) recommends which revenue opportunity(s) CHOP should pursue and (c) provides a high-level business case(s) for recommended opportunity(s) 

Sponsor Introduction:

Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, helping clients across more than 50 countries navigate their digital transformation. With over four decades of experience in managing the systems and operations of global enterprises, Infosys guides its clients expertly through the complexities of their digital journeys. 

Project Name: Exploration of Investment Opportunities in the Semiconductor Space for Infosys 

Project Description:

Infosys, as a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, is exploring opportunities to expand its capabilities within the semiconductor industry. This project aims to investigate current trends, customer demand, potential white spaces, and competitor strategies. By doing so, the goal is to identify areas of growth where Infosys can either invest in or acquire startups to enhance its offerings in the semiconductor space. 

WHY: Exploring the semiconductor market, while analyzing competitor movements, will allow Infosys to identify strategic opportunities that diversify its portfolio and maintain its leading position in high-tech consulting services. 

WHAT: The project involves assessing Infosys’ current capabilities in the semiconductor domain, identifying trends and market gaps, and analyzing competitor strategies. Additionally, it will explore investment or acquisition opportunities in startups and develop criteria for evaluating these potential investments. 

HOW: The project will be executed through thorough market research, focusing on key industry trends and competitor strategies. It will involve analyzing Infosys’ current strengths and identifying areas for expansion. This will culminate in a roadmap that guides the engagement with startups and outlines how Infosys can expand its service offerings in the semiconductor sector. 

WHO: This project will be carried out by group of students under the guidance of Sponsor and professors. The students will conduct research on market trends and competitors, providing strategic recommendations to Infosys for future investments. 

Deliverables:

The deliverables for this project include a comprehensive market analysis of the semiconductor industry, along with a detailed evaluation of key competitors. Additionally, the project will identify potential white spaces and growth opportunities for Infosys. Recommendations will be provided for strategic investments or acquisitions in startups, including criteria for evaluating these potential startups. Finally, the project will develop a roadmap for implementing Infosys’ semiconductor strategy, ensuring the company is well-positioned for expansion in this domain.  

Sponsor Introduction:

Ricoh Digital Services is a division of Ricoh Company, Ltd., dedicated to facilitating digital transformation for organizations worldwide. Leveraging over 80 years of innovation, Ricoh has evolved from a manufacturer of office equipment to a provider of integrated digital services and information management solutions. 

Project Name: Leveraging AI to Simplify Platform Complexity in Platform Engineering 

WHY: In an increasingly complex platform engineering landscape, the demand for efficient DevOps and streamlined infrastructure management is rising. Organizations face challenges with operational inefficiencies and high costs due to the intricate layers of their digital platforms. With AI-driven advancements, particularly in platform engineering, there is an opportunity to reduce platform complexity, improve interoperability, and lower reliance on labor-intensive processes. By exploring vendors like Kubiya.ai, which offer AI-enabled infrastructure overlay solutions, we can evaluate the practical applications of AI to both optimize platform operations and reduce associated costs. This initiative aligns with strategic priorities to embed AI across our systems, enhance existing capabilities, and build a sustainable digital platform ecosystem. 

WHAT: This project involves a study of AI applications tailored to the platform engineering domain. We will: 

• Identify Relevant AI Tools and Vendors: Evaluate leading AI tools in platform engineering (such as Kubiya.ai) based on our specific platform operations. 

• Assess Operational Impact: Analyze how these AI tools can streamline DevOps, reduce infrastructure complexity, and support enhanced platform interoperability. 

• Develop a Technical and Financial Assessment: Quantify potential cost savings, efficiency gains, and operational improvements from using AI-driven platform solutions. 

• Create a Roadmap: Develop a clear, actionable plan to integrate AI solutions into platform operations, focusing on operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. 

This approach will provide a comprehensive roadmap for future platform improvements, combining technical analysis with financial considerations to outline the most beneficial AI-driven platform enhancements. 

HOW: Discovery and Vendor Selection: Conduct research to identify vendors specializing in AI-enabled platform engineering, with a particular focus on those that can overlay and integrate seamlessly with our existing infrastructure. Prioritize tools that support DevOps automation and interoperability. 

Use Case Development and Tool Evaluation: 

• Develop use cases based on our platform’s operational needs, focusing on areas like deployment automation, system monitoring, and self-healing capabilities. 

• Evaluate each AI tool against these use cases, assessing their potential to improve performance and reduce costs. 

• Technical and Financial Impact Analysis: 

• Assess the technical feasibility of each solution within our current digital ecosystem. 

• Perform a cost-benefit analysis, including potential savings from reduced labor dependency and enhanced operational efficiency. 

• Roadmap Creation and Alignment with DS&D Initiatives: 

• Formulate a phased roadmap to implement the selected AI solutions. 

• Ensure alignment with strategic priorities, such as the AI in Everything initiative, enhancement of interoperability, and creation of an Intelligent Business Platform ecosystem. 

WHO: This project will be carried out by group of students under the guidance of Sponsor and professors. The ideal candidates should have technical knowledge of platform engineering concepts such as DevOps, infrastructure management, or system monitoring. Familiarity with AI applications, especially in operations or software development would be helpful. Experience or coursework in technology strategy, digital transformation or operations management. 

Deliverables:  

A PPT presentation and accompanying short narrative paper that provides a structured pathway toward an AI-optimized platform that will provide insights into:

• Methods and recommendations to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. 

• Analysis of current platform interoperability recommendations to streamline DevOps processes. 

• Decrease reliance on manual processes by introducing automation and self-management features. 

Success metrics will be considered in terms of whether recommendations have the potential to improve processes and productivity against current methods i.e. streamlining platform engineering, improving interoperability, reducing operational costs