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?

The article mentions that over a billion people need at least one kind of assistive technology, and the number is expected to double by 2050. From a global perspective, this is interesting because the assistive technologies could be advertised and sold in foreign countries. My role could be deciding which assistive technologies are in demand, and in which countries, and then target those market segments.

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?

If the assistive technologies market continues to develop, more people with disabilities will be able to lead independent lives. Right now, the market is still fixing issues and conducting trials with people like Phil. However, once the technology is more advanced and available to people, then lives of those with disabilities will greatly improve.

 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? 

Reusable shopping bags offer a huge opportunity for commercial development and social impact because the bags are both in-demand and environmentally friendly. Grocery stores and retail stores are beginning to charge for the use of a plastic bag. Therefore, people are going to need reusable shopping bags in the near future. The reusable bags will help decrease plastic waste and thus impact society in a positive way.