Recognizing Overlooked Needs

Gaining insights is often about learning to see. When we develop a keen eye for human behavior we recognize needs that have been long overlooked. When we immerse ourselves within the environment of a user group, we discover the little annoyances that hint at opportunities for innovation. Through years of research with home builders and homeowners BOLTgroup has gained a deep appreciation for the construction industry, the trades, and the consumer. We have logged many hours on job sites—observing, recording, and interviewing. Hunter Fan asked BOLTgroup to leverage these skills to help extend the powerful Hunter brand into the construction market.

Looking for Duct Tape

We have developed a portfolio of research methods for understanding the needs of tradesmen and translating those needs into innovations. But the most elementary method is still one of the best—looking for duct tape. A contractor’s use of duct tape can indicate an unmet need. Duct tape wrapped around a tool handle signals the need for a more ergonomic design; and duct tape used to bind two tools together is a beacon for a new product.

Insights and Opportunities

It’s not surprising that temperatures inside job sites can make the most seasoned contractor queasy. Fans provide some relief. But several discoveries were surprising.
> Large construction teams, even 10 or more, relied on a single fan.
> Flimsy window box fans were most common, often repaired with duct tape.
> Fans were used as tables by adding plywood platforms—with duct tape.
> Job sites were covered with drop cords for power tools and for fans.

Hunter Fan Innovations

From these discoveries BOLTgroup generated a variety of concepts leading to two innovations for Hunter Fan. The Twin Turbo Fan is encased in a rugged protective cage, has wheels for easy maneuvering, and has a built-in power strip. The Sherpa Cart Fan cleverly combines a tool cart, a floodlight, and a powerful fan all in an adjustable frame. Both fans epitomize the strong character of the Hunter brand and address tangible needs on the construction site.