A Mechanism to Support “Ambiguous Problems” and “Solutions”:

A Single Case Study of DMM.make Akiba

Abstract

Hardware start-up companies (HWSUs) often face “ambiguous problems” before and after their establishment. In this study, we examine such ambiguous problems, as well as their solution behavior and support by analyzing single case data. In this case study, the HWSU had many ambiguous problems in two areas: functional design and technological design. However, it is difficult for a HWSU that does not have sufficient resources and expertise to address these issues alone. To discuss this problem, we focus on DMM.make Akiba, a HWSU support organization. This organization contributes to growth of HWSUs through two support mechanisms: tech staff help to identify inherent problems with technological design by suggesting the importance of specific development goals and roadmaps, and community managers contribute to recognition of key problems with functional design by activating members and partners as one community.