Louisa Ojo, a multiple award winning creator and industry expert, served as a panel judge at the Product Innovation Showcase during Lagos Tech Fest, where she analysed and provided valuable contributions to upcoming innovators and entrepreneurs showcasing their innovative products.

The event curates a variety of startups showing their outstanding products, from project management tools, healthtech and Fintech devices to ingenious software solutions. Innovators and Entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to a panel of seasoned judges including Louisa Ojo. As an expert judge, Louisa played a pivotal role in offering constructive feedback to guide these emerging solutions and their creators. In this interview, she shares her experience as a panel judge, insights into the future of product innovation, and her contributions to the tech ecosystem. Here are the highlights:

What motivated you to participate as a judge in the Product Innovation Showcase at Lagos Tech Fest, given your extensive background in product management?
My passion extends beyond creating innovative solutions but also contributing to the growth of the tech ecosystem. This is a notable opportunity to experience firsthand the ingenuity of aspiring entrepreneurs and to share my views on how these products can be better and more sustainable.

As a product manager, what specific criteria did you consider while evaluating the showcased products at Lagos Tech Fest’s Innovation Showcase?
I focused on several key criteria, including the distinctiveness of the product and its underlying concept, what possible impact it can have on solving existing problems or addressing market needs, the scalability of the product, user experience design, and the overall feasibility of implementation. A strong criteria was placed on how well the product provided solutions to user experience challenges and robust feedback system in place .

What stood out to you about the most innovative product or solution showcased during the event?
The most innovative product strongly displayed an in-depth understanding of the user needs and employed ingenious technological solutions to meet these pain points.Its accessible user interface and seamless integration of user feedback into its development process demonstrated a well thought out plan for future growth , improvement and scalability. Wholly , it embodied the perfect ratio of innovation , technology, and user-centric focused design.

How crucial is effective communication of the value proposition for innovative products, particularly in environments like the Product Innovation Showcase?
Effective communication is non-negotiable to achieve strategic demonstration of a product’s value and use especially in a fast paced and competitive environment. Entrepreneurs’ technical prowess, though valuable , will need to have the ability to articulate their product value and the solution it offers when compared with other present products. Clarity and deep conviction in presenting the value content and application can make a significant difference in capturing the audience’s attention and winning over potential investors or partners.

Considering the rapidly evolving tech landscape, how do you envision the future of product innovation, especially in emerging markets like Lagos?
In expensive market environments like Lagos and Nigeria, the trajectory of product management holds tremendous opportunities in store. With an increasing young populace, improved access to technology and a growing entrepreneurial spirit among the populace , we can expect to see an increase in innovative products tailored to the unique needs and challenges of these markets. There will be a greater emphasis on accessibility ,inclusivity, sustainability, and leveraging emerging technologies such as data analysis , AI, IoT, and behavioral analysis to drive meaningful change and create value for users.

What advice do you have for aspiring product managers and entrepreneurs looking to innovate in today’s competitive market?
You have to be open to learning , eager to experiment and on top of your game. Embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and research , and don’t be afraid to challenge what you put out in the past. Invest time in understanding your target audience accurately, and their current needs should provide a guide for your product creation and implementation. Build a diverse team with a unique skill set , and enhance a culture of teamwork, iteration and continuous improvement . Above all, be resilient and adaptable in the face of constant change , and view challenges as stepping stones to success.

How do events like the Product Innovation Showcase contribute to the growth and development of the tech ecosystem, particularly in regions like Lagos?
Events like the Product Innovation Showcase serve as an accelerant for ingenuity by providing a platform for entrepreneurs to unveil their solutions, gain strategic exposure, and access potential investors and partners. They provide a forum for extensive collaboration, knowledge sharing, and networking among diverse stakeholders within the tech ecosystem, ultimately driving growth and contributing immensely to the advancement of the region’s tech landscape.

In your experience as a panel judge, how do you see the impact of events like the Product Innovation Showcase on the overall tech ecosystem in Lagos?
Events like the Product Innovation Showcase play a pivotal role in the continuous growth of the tech ecosystem in Lagos by identifying and bringing to the forefront innovative products and solutions, attracting investment, and nurturing talent. They aid in placing Lagos on the roadmap as a notable hub for creativity and entrepreneurship, fostering a culture of ingenuity breaking boundaries , and collaboration that is essential for long-term sustainable growth.

How do you personally contribute to the growth and development of the startups or products you evaluate or work with?
As a product manager, I delight in employing my years of expertise and in-depth understanding of the tech ecosystem in providing pointers and mentoring entrepreneurs. I strive to provide constructive feedback, clear insights, and relevant guidance to help startups refine their product roadmap , iterate effectively, and navigate the challenges of scaling their business. By enhancing a supportive and collaborative environment, I aim to give back tremendously to the tech ecosystem and contribute to the growth of the startups I engage with.