The Expense Trend app aims to provide users with valuable insights into their spending habits, but there is a need to ensure that the app aligns with customer expectations and needs. The project involves analyzing current analytics data to identify any gaps between the app's offerings and the value customers seek. By understanding these gaps, the project aims to refine the ideal customer profile and segment the customer base more effectively. The goal is to ensure that the app addresses the right problems and appeals to the right audience, enhancing user satisfaction and engagement. This project will allow learners to apply their knowledge of data analysis, customer profiling, and market segmentation.

- Analyze existing analytics data to identify gaps in product value.

- Review customer feedback and usage patterns to understand customer needs.

- Define an ideal customer profile based on data insights.

- Segment the customer base to target specific groups effectively.

The project will result in a comprehensive report detailing the analysis of current analytics and customer feedback. This report will include:

- Identification of gaps between the app's offerings and customer expectations.

- A refined ideal customer profile based on data insights.

- Recommendations for customer segmentation to improve targeting.

- Suggestions for potential app enhancements to better meet customer needs.

What is the main goal for this project?

Identify and solve a real-world business or technology challenge using emerging technologies and digital tools. The primary goal is to deliver a research-backed, innovative, and feasible technology-driven solution that addresses a specific organizational need—such as inefficient processes, lack of data-driven insights, or digital transformation gaps.

By the end of the project, students are expected to:

• Identify and define a relevant business or technology problem through strategic and market analysis.
• Develop and propose an innovative, scalable solution that leverages emerging technologies (e.g., AI, blockchain, IoT, cloud).
• Apply a digital mindset to analyze challenges, assess risks, and propose creative, resilient solutions that align with business goals.
• Utilize digital tools and data strategies to validate their recommendations and create a roadmap for implementation.
• Deliver a comprehensive, actionable plan supported by visualizations, business models, and financial sustainability analysis.
• Communicate professionally with internal and external stakeholders, demonstrating strong interpersonal, negotiation, and presentation skills.

What tasks will participants need to complete to achieve the project goal?

This project challenges learners to think like innovators—blending business strategy, technology integration, and data-driven thinking to co-create value with an industry partner. The outcome is a well-researched, strategic proposal that has the potential for real impact in the workplace.

PROJECT DELIVERABLES:

1. Business Problem Identification

What challenge/dilemma is your organization currently facing that could benefit from an innovative, technology-driven approach?

Examples:

•       Inefficient workflows

•       Manual data processing

•       Lack of customer insights

•       Operational bottlenecks

•       Other?

What you’ll get: A clearly defined, research-backed problem statement (business research question) connected to relevant emerging technologies.

2. Assessment of Emerging Technologies

Which emerging technologies could be leveraged to address your challenge?

The students will:

•       Evaluate multiple emerging technologies (e.g., AI, blockchain, cloud, IoT)

•       Analyze feasibility, scalability, and ethical considerations.

What you’ll get: A recommendation of the best-fit technology for your business.

3. Technology-Driven Solution Design

How will the selected technology be applied to solve your business problem?

The students will:

•       Propose an innovative, feasible solution.

•       Create a high-level architecture or prototype concept.

•       Justify business value. 

What you’ll get: A tech-aligned solution that shows promise for real-world application.

4. Implementation Strategy What would a potential launch look like?

The students will:

•       Build an implementation roadmap.

•       Identify milestones, resources, and risk factors.

•       Align technology with your operations.

What you’ll get: A practical and strategic plan for deployment.

5. Digital Tools & Data Strategy

How can data and digital tools enhance your decision-making?

The students will:

•       Integrate tools like cloud platforms, automation, and analytics.

•       Use data insights for strategy validation.

What you’ll get: An analytics-driven foundation for continuous improvement.

6. AI & Advanced Tech Integration

Could AI, blockchain, or IoT bring a competitive edge?

The students will:

•       Incorporate advanced technologies as appropriate.

•       Clarify strategic advantages and cost-benefit.

What you’ll get: Next-gen tech embedded with business purpose.

7. Financial Feasibility & Sustainability Is the solution viable in the long term?

The students will:

•       Draft a financial plan (ROI, break-even, ongoing costs)

•       Propose sustainable strategies for scaling and maintenance.

What you’ll get: A well-rounded view of long-term investment potential.

8. Research & Evidence-Based Approach The students will:

•       Use credible sources to support every aspect of the proposal.

•       Benchmark against industry best practices.

What you’ll get: A research-backed, professional-grade report.