NASA needed improved automated crater detection algorithms to analyze planetary imagery more effectively. The existing approach required advanced image processing and machine learning expertise. NASA sought a way to accelerate algorithm development by drawing on diverse problem-solving approaches. NASA implemented a competitive marathon match to crowdsource advanced crater detection algorithms. A $49,000 prize pool was offered to attract data scientists and machine learning experts worldwide. Participants developed image processing solutions focused on detecting craters in planetary images. The effort produced advanced crater detection algorithm concepts generated through competition. The $49,000 prize pool attracted global participants with relevant machine learning and image processing expertise. The approach supported faster progress toward analyzing planetary imagery and accelerating scientific research.

NASA needed improved automated crater detection for analyzing planetary imagery. Existing approaches limited how quickly they could advance image processing methods at scale. They also needed to access a wider range of data science and machine learning expertise beyond internal teams. NASA implemented a competitive marathon match to crowdsource crater detection algorithms. A $49,000 prize pool was used to attract data scientists and machine learning experts from around the world. Participants developed image processing solutions tailored to planetary imagery analysis. The initiative delivered new crater detection algorithms for planetary image processing. The $49,000 prize pool helped draw global participation from top practitioners. NASA expanded the diversity of problem-solving approaches and accelerated scientific research through the competition format.

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METI built a database with thousands of business case studies to help Japanese business owners navigate key decisions and obstacles. The resource went virtually unused because many case studies existed as hard-to-search PDFs. Users often gave up in frustration. Inconsistent formatting and varied content management methods added further friction. METI pursued a more consistent, intuitive, modern digital experience. A design-first exploration and rapid prototyping approach was implemented to produce a responsive website interface optimized for older and elderly users. Designers submitted over a dozen unique interface concepts in less than two weeks, and METI iterated through feedback on preferred options. The effort then delivered a REST API and a fully functional prototype, with all design and development completed in three weeks. The database became more user-friendly and modern, turning it into an essential digital asset for Japan’s economy. The approach delivered design and prototyping 3X faster than traditional delivery options. Total cost was reduced by 125% versus traditional delivery options. METI also received 10+ high-quality design concepts to choose from within two weeks and a full prototype in three weeks.

Stanley Black & Decker aimed to transform collaboration and decision-making across its 150+ factories worldwide. The company needed two connected solutions: a hands-free mobile experience for factory technicians and a centralized command center interface for real-time oversight. The mobile tool needed to help technicians troubleshoot machinery using Augmented Reality glasses while connecting with remote experts. The command center needed to provide live visibility into asset health, production flow, and workforce coordination. A series of three Rapid User Experience (RUX) challenges was launched to conceptualize and refine a visual collaboration platform connecting factory technicians with remote machine experts. Designers created two interfaces: a hands-free Augmented Reality experience for technicians and a touchscreen experience for experts using tablets. The Augmented Reality interface enabled access to live machine data, blueprints, and remote guidance through real-time voice and video via voice control. The expert interface supported monitoring sensor data, reviewing asset history, and collaborating through annotations, remote commands, and live video. Stanley Black & Decker received a forward-looking design foundation to support digital transformation in manufacturing operations. The Augmented Reality tool improved technician efficiency and enabled remote collaboration with experts. The command center enhanced visibility and responsiveness at a global scale. The approach accelerated innovation while keeping user needs at the center.

The U.S. Department of Energy needed to accelerate solar energy adoption by addressing soft-costs and other adoption barriers. It sought a way to source and validate many ideas quickly. It also needed support to move concepts into working prototypes and MVPs. The Department of Energy launched the SunShot Catalyst competition series and used crowdsourcing to attract and engage participants. Seventeen finalists received $25,000 each and access to an online development platform to build prototypes and MVPs. The program also selected five winners who received cash prizes to help launch their businesses. The initiative delivered 17 business prototypes. Work was completed in 9 weeks with participation from 165+ members across 61 countries. The program was recognized as an ISPIM Grand Prize winner for innovation management excellence.