The Market for Assistive Technologies and Commercial Development:  The attached article on the market for assistive technologies has some bold predictions about commercial opportunities.  Given your interest in business (i.e. finance, accounting, marketing, global management, etc.), what commercial opportunity in assistive technologies stands out for you?

For me, the SmartDrive is the most interesting piece of commercial assistive technology.  A SmartDrive is a motor that one can attach to the back of their wheelchair and it propels them forward.  This technology is extremely helpful and capable for its users.  My mother uses a wheelchair and we have had a SmartDrive for the past two years.  It not only makes going up hills easier for wheelchair user, but also the families.  We have even used it going up the hills on Pitt’s campus.   As the technology advances, the SmartDrive will become more affordable and more widespread.  It is a great product that will keep getting better.

The Market for Assistive Technologies and Social Impact: The article also offers us a glimpse of some of the social impacts that are possible through an attention to the development of this market.  What specific positive social impact is likely/possible if the market continues to develop?

I think that over time as technology advances, difficult tasks for individuals with disabilities will become manageable.  As mentioned in the article, simple tasks like texting a loved one can be difficult.  When these changes take place, those with disabilities will become a more integrated part of society.  There are not a lot of recreational opportunities for people with disabilities and over time, I think the rest of society will recognize this problem and take measures to combat it.

Other Examples Like This?:  Based on our review of the market for assistive technologies as an area of opportunities for commercial development and opportunities for social impact, what other types of markets (likely in areas related to people, planet and profit) offer opportunities for commercial development and social impact? 

I would say the medical field could really grow in the future.  Health technology is getting cheaper and more innovative.  Wearable health technology is already a reality, as shown in the Apple Watch’s ECG.  Being able to diagnose and prevent health issues before they seriously develop will be a huge opportunity for commercial development and social impact.