Analytik has been working with the IfM, based in the University of Cambridge’s Department of Engineering, since 2008 and each year it invites a number of students to take part in a marketing project, which also forms part of their coursework. The opportunity is designed to provide benefit for both parties; valuable market information for Analytik, and the opportunity to gain commercial experience and real-life application of sales and marketing theory for the students.
Working within a two-week timeframe, the aims for this year’s project were to:
- Understand the technology and techniques used in the Stabino®
- Understand the needs and challenges faced by people in relevant target markets
- Establish key Unique Selling Points (USPs) for the product within its relevant markets
- Formulate a market entry strategy for the product
Through research and communication with key personnel from a wide range of different companies, institutes and organisations, the students mapped out the various applicable markets, product USPs and market strategies for the Stabino®. To conclude their project, they presented a summary of their findings to the Analytik team and their course supervisor, which demonstrated a great level of work and key insights that were previously unknown.
Key outcomes of the project revealed that:
- The frequency at which the Stabino® can add titrant and record streaming and zeta-potential measurements is unique among titration methods. The resolution of the generated profile allows for the identification of the exactpH point where the system de-stabilises as it reaches its isoelectric point.
- To measure streaming potential at the ease with which the Stabino® can would be of immense benefit to numerous fields including but not limited to: oil recovery, water-proofing, lubrication development, or any field which concerns the interaction of particles with a surface.
- In addition to providing a reference surface for the measurement of streaming potential, the oscillation of the PTFE piston during zeta-potential measurement and titration continuously keeps the dispersion mixed – a distinct advantage over using other zeta-potential measurement instruments where particles fall out of solution during measurements (sedimentation), rendering the measurements worthless.
Talking about this year’s project and collaboration with the IfM, Adam Hilless, Analytik’s Particle Metrix Product Specialist, says: “The students grasped what was required of the project very quickly and were able to utilise key contacts in order to gain a thorough understanding of the Stabino® and its applications. We were very impressed with the level of work produced and gained some valuable knowledge about not only applicable markets but also about the product itself.
IfM Course Director, Dr Florian Urmetzer adds: “We really value our relationship with Analytik and other similar SMEs that offer industrial placements for IfM students each year. It provides students with excellent experience in solving problems in an industrial context, where there isn’t necessarily a ‘right answer’. This ambiguity means that students often have to analyse data from multiple sources and piece together options and recommendations that help to inform business strategy. We are very grateful to Analytik for providing students with this opportunity and look forward to working with them in the future.”
Analytik looks forward to welcoming next year’s IfM students and thanks Joshua Matthews and Michele Morency for their excellent work.
For further information on the Stabino®, click here.