IN2 Innovation Project Spotlight
Frigidaire ReadyPrepTM Cutting Board System
The Challenge
Frigidaire, an American brand of the Electrolux Group and a global leader in kitchen appliances, approached IN2 Innovation with a bold goal: to uncover innovative ways to enhance consumers’ experiences in the kitchen. Through extensive qualitative research, IN2 identified an untapped opportunity in one of the most fundamental aspects of meal preparation—the cutting and chopping process.
Existing cutting boards, while functional, had seen little innovation and were not optimized for the diverse needs of modern users. Frigidaire sought a solution that could reimagine this essential kitchen tool, combining aesthetic appeal with enhanced usability.
The Solution:
ReadyPrep™ Cutting Board System
Research and Insights
Frigidaire teamed up with IN2 and began by conducting in-depth qualitative research to better understand the pain points and unmet needs associated with cutting boards. Common frustrations included:
- Difficulty transferring chopped food from the board to a container or pot.
- Limited storage options for cutting boards in compact kitchens.
- A lack of modularity to accommodate different cutting tasks.
These insights paved the way for a cutting-edge solution: the ReadyPrep™ Cutting Board System.
Design and Functionality
The ReadyPrep™ Cutting Board System transforms the traditional cutting board into a versatile and user-friendly tool. The key features include:
- Interchangeable Boards: A modular design that accommodates various cutting tasks with easily swappable boards.
- Shallow Tray Integration: A seamless tray along one edge of the board for collecting, storing, or transferring food, reducing mess and improving efficiency.
- Stackability and Storage: A space-saving design that allows for easy stacking and storage, ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
- Aesthetic Versatility: A sleek, modern design that complements any kitchen decor while ensuring durability and practicality.
Engineering and Manufacturing
Once the design was finalized, IN2 and Frigidaire worked closely to ensure that the ReadyPrep™ Cutting Board System met high standards for functionality, durability, and manufacturability. This collaboration included:
- Prototyping and testing to optimize the design for user satisfaction.
- Engineering solutions to ensure quality and ease of production.
- Manufacturing support to bring the concept to market efficiently.
The Impact
The ReadyPrep™ Cutting Board System exemplifies how thoughtful design and user-centric innovation can transform a routine kitchen task into an enjoyable experience. Key outcomes were:
- Enhanced User Experience: Consumers benefit from a more intuitive and efficient cutting and chopping process.
- Brand Differentiation: Frigidaire’s focus on innovative, high-quality kitchen tools strengthens its position as a leader in the kitchen appliance industry.
- Market Readiness: A design that balances aesthetic appeal with functional excellence ensures strong consumer appeal and adoption.
See it in action here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ealrUJ71gqo
Conclusion
Frigidaire’s collaboration with IN2 Innovation highlights the power of aligning research, design, and engineering to create solutions that resonate with consumers. The ReadyPrep™ Cutting Board System, one of IN2’s many research-based innovations, is not just a kitchen tool—it’s a testament to how innovation can elevate everyday experiences.
For organizations seeking to uncover new opportunities and bring innovative ideas to life, IN2 Innovation offers the expertise and strategic partnership to make it happen. Let’s create what’s next together.
