Meet the Founders: InnoExplorer

As part of our ‘Meet the Founders’ series, we introduce you to the visionaries behind some of the most innovative projects reshaping the industry.

Today, we’re talking to Ipsos, one of the Tony Cowling Foundation Market Research Industry Innovation Award 2024 finalists. Below, Dr. Nikolai Reynolds, Ipsos Global Head of Product Testing shares more of Ipsos’ journey so far.

For our readers who might be unfamiliar with your work, can you provide a brief overview of what your project/service/platform does and the problem it aims to solve?

InnoExplorer transforms the innovation process by humanizing Artificial Intelligence. By using generative and analytical AI in combination with Human Intelligence, we boost innovations with breakthrough potential and help businesses in the new world to create and validate new ideas, concepts, products, and packs in minutes to help accelerating innovation cycles.

What was the inspiration behind this project? Was there a particular moment or experience that sparked the idea?

Artificial intelligence has triggered a seismic shift in innovation development, enabling businesses to bring better products and services into our world. At the same time the demand for personalization has never been greater. Streaming services, same-day delivery, and AI-powered recommendations have made hyper-personalization and instant gratification the norm. When innovations are disconnected from consumer needs, growth opportunities are missed. With the rise of Generative AI businesses can innovate faster and more effectively, giving them a competitive edge in today's rapidly changing landscape.

Every startup has its ups and downs. Can you share one significant challenge you've overcome and a triumph that you're particularly proud of?

Keeping up to speed with the advancements in generative AI and advancing In Explorer with the ever growing capabilities of AI.

Where do you see your project in the next five years? Are there any new features or innovations you're particularly excited about?

We are thinking in shorter timelines and in addition we will be using a more diverse set of data going beyond survey and social data and leverage GenAI based video capabilities to bring research more to life. In addition, the blend of synthetic and real respondents will be a fixed component to maximize sample sizes during the InnoExplorer development.

Beyond the business aspect, what personal motivations or passions drive you in this venture?

Firstmost: Delivering the highest possible impact for clients. We are living in one of the most exciting times in research - the technological advancements are breath-taking and exciting at the same time. Being part and leading this industry development is huge motivation and passion for us.

Looking back, is there something you wish you'd known when you started?

Not really, it’s all a journey.

In an ever-evolving tech landscape, how do you stay ahead of the curve in terms of features and offerings?

Embracing change, being ready to pivot when necessary and not holding on to the past. We are continuously experimenting, speaking with clients about their needs and screening any new developments that could be relevant for us.

Every startup has a unique culture and set of values. Can you describe your company culture and how it contributes to your success?

Ipsos was founded in 1975 however we are not owned by venture capitalists and are really the home of researchers, we have maintained the entrepreneurial spirit since 1975. This also shows in such developments such as In Explorer.

Founding and running a startup is notoriously demanding. How do you/your team manage work-life balance, and how do you ensure your team does as well?

We don’t! We have a passion for what we do but can ruthlessly prioritize when needed.

What would you say is the single most compelling reason people should choose your platform/service?

The ability to deliver better in-market outcomes. In other words, create and launch superior products with more confidence faster and more personalized to meet true consumer needs.