Define the unmet need
Work with end users to describe the situations they face, the limits of current approaches and what a future solution needs to achieve.
Assess technologies and gaps
Review available and emerging solutions against those needs. Identify where existing products may be suitable and where development or testing is needed.
Prepare an open market consultation
Decide what you need to learn from suppliers. Use their feedback to refine requirements and understand what the market can deliver.
Prepare for pre-commercial procurement
Use the findings to frame a shared challenge and define technical requirements. Pre-commercial procurement can be relevant where new research and development is needed.