Strategic Innovation at Risis (A): The RISIS Orchid – The Science and Art of "Can Do" Innovation

By Wee Beng Geok & Seow Jia Min

Abstract

The RISIS orchid, a gold plated orchid, was invented in 1970s as a souvenir to promote Singapore's fledgling tourism industry. The challenge for its inventor was to develop a souvenir that could be identified as uniquely Singaporean, without belonging specifically to any of the major ethnic groups that made up Singapore's population. The case describes the path the inventor took to create such an object. It examines the development process including the thought processes and actions of the inventor as he conceptualized the design, developed and then manufactured the object.

The case provides also an opportunity to discuss the issue of what design is about and the role of science and imagination in creating the RISIS orchid.

This case was commissioned by the DesignSingapore Council at the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts.
View other cases in the DesignSingapore series ››

Issues: Innovation process, Technology & Innovation, Design values, Branding

View case details in our E-catalog ››

About the Authors