Freeware

This version of the NtK Model is a guide for the creation and deployment of a project output (a defined solution to a defined problem), in the form of freely available computer code or instructions, not intended for mass production and distribution in the commercial marketplace. The problem and solution set are defined in the context of an underlying need as defined by the target group which is intended to benefit from features/functions of project output. These targeted consumers/customers must be involved from the beginning and throughout the process.

Definition: The "free" in Freeware means there is no or low cost to cost to acquire the ware (product or service). Freeware encompasses both operational software applications (Apps) and user instruction kits (DIY). There are three categories of Apps: 1. Free, 2. Low Fee, 3. Freemium; and two DIY categories: 4. Free DIY, 5. Fee DIY. The Freeware category excludes outputs requiring the exchange of tangible materials.  

The NtK Model for Freeware contains Stages, Steps and Gates that may vary across the five sub-categories, as described in the five columns below.

Freeware Fee App Freemium Free DIY Fee DIY/Training
Free apps  Low cost or <$5.00 apps  Freemium cost > $5 apps Free DIY instructions to build a device Paid at single $29.95 payment, or $4.95/month recurring cost.

PHASE I — Discovery

Generating Conceptual Discoveries through Scientific and Market Research Methodologies

The Discovery Phase (Activity Stages and Decision Gates 1 through 3) necessarily begins with the conduct of primary and secondary market research activity to validate an unmet need of end users (e.g., persons with disabilities), and to define the need in the context of a problem amenable to a technology-based solution (Stage & Gate 1). The next task (Stage & Gate 2) is to assess the feasibility of deploying some envisioned product interventions as a solution to the defined problem. After the problem and solution are both defined and validated, the Scientific Research methodology may then be applied as necessary (Stage & Gate 3) to fill in any critical knowledge gaps with new-to-the-world findings. The Discovery Phase compiles knowledge from market, business, and technical analyses, scoping reviews of existing scholarly literature, along with or findings from original scientific research studies. The problem and solution set are defined in the context of an underlying need as defined by the target group which is intended to benefit from features/functions of project output. These targeted consumers/customers must be involved from the beginning and throughout the process.

Stages and Gates 1 through 3

Research.

PHASE II — Development

The Development Phase (Stages & Gates 4 — 5) involves transforming Conceptual Discoveries about validated Problems and feasible Solutions, into working prototypes of the envisioned Instrument or Tool, by rigorously applying the appropriate engineering development methods to the iterative design, construction, testing and revision to address all specified requirements. 

Stages and Gates 4 through 5

Development.

PHASE III — Industrial Production

The Production Phase (Stage and Gate 6) requires a shift to the application of Industrial Production methodology.

Activities include planning for all aspects of production — from manufacturing processes through after-sales service — and the execution of activities related to test marketing, launch, and on-going monitoring of the product and market conditions. Project leaders and partners need to ensure participants have the appropriate skill sets and experience to implement all of these required activities. The Production Phase output is new knowledge in the state of a Commercial Innovation deployed in the marketplace.

Stage and Gate 6

Production.