Successful packaging innovation meets a variety of needs: consumer needs, retailer growth opportunities, customer growth opportunities, package capabilities and Ball’s manufacturing capabilities (see model at right).

As shown in our model, successful new products and packages grow both consumption and retail sales. Identifying these growth opportunities and locating their intersection (along with the other needs identified) is core to our philosophy of innovation, and it differentiates likely successes from novelties and careless investments.

Gated Approach
Refining ideas and building business cases through opportunity maps like the one above are key activities in Ball’s innovation process. At Ball, we systematically evaluate various sources of ideas, including the modified requirements of our customers and outside inventors (inventor info). We collaborate closely with our customers in order to gain a precise knowledge and understanding of their needs and requirements.

Our packaging innovation teams use an evaluation process to assess ideas and develop and track innovation projects. After each phase of an innovation project, we evaluate the results before moving ahead. The approach allows us to invest wisely, invite our customers to join our innovation process at any key phase, and ensure overall project quality and product viability.