Remember user generated content? That was yesterday. The new cool thing is user generated innovation. Tap into the minds of the crowds.
"In an array of industries, producer centered innovation is being eclipsed by user-centered innovation-the dreaming up, development prototyping, and even production of new products by consumers." writes Eric von Hippel in a February issue of Harvard Business Review. Internet, with its inherent ability to herd like-minded people, has accelerated this phenomenon.

CrowdSpirit has taken the lead in letting others take the lead. You can invent, design and manufacture future electronic products with other like-minded spirits.

Here is the idea in their own words:
"1. Submit an idea of a new innovative electronic product.
2. Vote, define specification, or even invest money on products.
3. Once finalized, test and recommend products to retailers."
and finally " Based on your contribution to the project, earn a share of the product revenue."

At another site, Cambrian House, you can submit your business ideas for any project under the moon - or maybe even beyond.

These initiatives are fresh, so the verdict about their potential is still out. But before we will be looking at massive layoffs at R&D facilities around the world, listening to end users, tapping into their opinions and ideas, could tremendously benefit every manufacturer or service provider today.