Assignment task

The assessment consists of a single, individually produced film report (presentation), carrying a 100% weighting. This task evaluates each student’s independent work and performance. In addition to the film, students are required to submit a concise portfolio of evidence supporting their work.

Task Overview

Students are tasked with identifying a specific customer need, problem, or business opportunity within the fast fashion sector. This must address Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues or a combination of these. Using the tools and methodologies provided during the module, students will develop creative and innovative solutions. The task involves selecting the most viable solution, designing an implementation plan for the following 12 months, and conducting an innovation audit to preemptively address potential challenges.

  • Choose a specific customer need, problem, or business opportunity related to the fast fashion sector. Examples include reducing textile waste, promoting sustainable consumption, introducing circular fashion initiatives, enhancing transparency in supply chains, or providing affordable ethical options for consumers.
  • Analyze the chosen issue or opportunity in the context of Environmental, Social, and Governance considerations. Assess how the proposed solution could minimize environmental impact, enhance social responsibility, and align with ethical business practices.
  • Utilize creative and innovation tools to generate multiple potential solutions for the identified issue. Possible solutions could include integrating second-hand product lines, developing repair and reuse initiatives, launching eco-friendly materials, offering transparency-focused apps, or creating sustainable in-store experiences.
  • Select the most appropriate solution based on its potential impact, feasibility, and alignment with the identified issue or opportunity. Justify your choice with evidence and relevant data.
  • Develop a detailed implementation plan for the chosen solution over the next 12 months. Include essential steps, required resources, stakeholder engagement strategies, and a timeline.
  • Apply an innovation audit methodology to anticipate potential challenges in implementing the solution. Consider factors such as consumer acceptance, regulatory compliance, operational feasibility, resource availability, and alignment with ESG principles.
  • Provide evidence-based recommendations to mitigate the challenges identified during the innovation audit. Propose strategies to address risks, secure necessary resources, ensure compliance with local and global regulations, and foster stakeholder and community support.

Note:

  • The film report presentation should highlight your ability to independently analyse, innovate, and strategize. Demonstrate your understanding of the relationship between sustainable practices, ethical considerations, and the fast fashion industry.
  • Your presentation should effectively communicate the selected solution, its feasibility, and your approach to overcoming potential hurdles.
  • Presentation format:
    • The filmed report must include your presence as part of the content and not rely solely on voice-over narration.
    • Creativity and imagination are strongly encouraged to enhance engagement. Aim to present as a junior executive addressing a board of directors or potential investors.
  • Supporting Evidence Portfolio:
    • Your portfolio should highlight your contributions to the task and include elements such as research findings (primary and secondary), reports, diagrams (e.g., mind maps, rich picture diagrams), photographs, and notes.
    • Links to complementary external resources (e.g., YouTube videos, blogs, podcasts) may also be included, provided there is a clear connection between the portfolio and the filmed report.
  • Length and Submission:
    • The film report should be 8–10 minutes, with a small variation of +/-10%.
    • Submit the portfolio and the filmed report separately using the designated submission points.
  • Your portfolio should reflect your personal effort and contributions, showcasing how you approached the task with thoroughness and dedication. Your filmed report should be engaging and dynamic, presenting you as a capable junior executive with a flair for imaginative communication.

Key Independent Learning Activities, Employability Skills, and Stretch Activities

  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of constructing innovation-driven activities and initiatives.
  • Apply advanced creative problem-solving techniques and methodologies.
  • Identify key information needs using core textbooks and reputable sources to build innovation, change, and commercial acumen.
  • Conduct searches using commercial databases, research reports, and credible sources to support evidence-based arguments for the identified issue and proposed solution.
  • Undertake primary research using business research methodologies such as field observations, surveys, archival research, and interviews.
  • Demonstrate independent leadership and, where applicable, the ability to lead others effectively.
  • Utilize technology to plan, produce, and edit high-quality video content.

Exhibit junior executive-level presentation skills through a professional, engaging, and creative delivery.

This assignment has been designed to provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate your achievement of the following module learning outcomes:
LO1: Apply an evaluative approach to a range of business data, sources of information and appropriate methodologies in identifying drivers of innovation within a business and its environments.
LO2: Analyse and illustrate how organisations can successfully plan, prepare and manage innovation and creative activities.
LO3: Critically discuss the importance of organisational knowledge, knowledge transfer and cross functional co-operation in order to analyse and assess innovation capability and blockages.
LO4: Actively engage in the identification of an innovative and/or creative solution for an identified business or organizational need.
LO5: Conduct an innovation development audit appropriate for the introduction of the new product/service.