Testing such a prototype—that is, a model or working version—is a proven method in the development of products or services intended for the market. With other products as well, such as food, apps, or medical products, founders rely on extensive testing and go through a so-called validation process until the product is ready for the market.
Live show with live feedback
Thematically, the science musical show “Auf Kurs?” addresses current global challenges such as climate change and the energy transition, which Dr. Jana Heysel illustrates in a humorous, thought-provoking, and ironic manner. She visualizes these abstract concepts through physical experiments, making them accessible even to younger audience members.
“Auf Kurs?” thrives on interaction with the audience—both during the performance itself and during the development of ideas. On stage, Dr. Jana Heysel addresses the audience directly, tells jokes, and invites audience members onto the stage to assist with the experiments. Audience participation is also sought after the show, this time in the form of a digital feedback form that allows the test audience to express praise, criticism, and suggestions for improvement. This provides Dr. Jana Heysel with feedback she can use to improve her show. “I’m grateful for every piece of feedback, whether it’s critical comments or simply positive remarks that show me I’m on the right track with my show,” says Dr. Jana Heysel.
Food testing: the tasting
Founder Mercy Grunwald is also testing her prototype: she offers a West African soft drink for tasting at zero-waste stores and networking events, gathering feedback on possible changes to the flavor profile and potential target audiences. This feedback is particularly important for novel products or those previously unknown in a country, such as Mercy Grunwald’s beverage, which is intended to offer health benefits in addition to refreshment using ingredients from traditional African medicine. For targeted marketing of such previously unknown products, it pays to have a good understanding of the customers’ tastes.
Data for app development: collecting movement patterns
The product developed by PD Dr. Jennifer Faber originated from a scientific research question. It is an app for ataxia patients suffering from a neurological movement disorder. The app is designed to accurately record movement parameters independently of clinical examinations and to improve the treatment of movement symptoms through direct feedback. Pilot testing of the app is being conducted by patients. For the science behind the idea, Dr. Jennifer Faber also needs data on the movement patterns of healthy people. Under the motto “Donate your Gait,” she and her team are collecting movement patterns of healthy walking from volunteers across all age groups. More information is available from the Team Cerebellum or at the Bonn Science Night 2026 (21.-22.5.2026).
Validation and understanding the target audience is essential for start-ups
“Gathering as much customer feedback as possible provides valuable insights for young entrepreneurs and start-ups and is therefore frequently used for both market research and idea development,” explains start-up coach Anna Villwock from the Transfer Center enaCom, who is supporting the three founders. She adds: “Testing prototypes and products is an important step in the development of any idea. I advise every founder to gather extensive customer feedback before entering the market.”
Anna Villwock coordinates the exist Women program for female founders at the University of Bonn, through which Dr. Jana Heysel and PD Dr. Jennifer Faber are or have been supported. exist Women has been offered at the University of Bonn since 2023 and is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy.
