Effective market research can help MSMEs develop products that better meet market needs. To aid in market mapping, MSMEs can use empathy maps. This tool offers a deeper understanding of the target market’s characteristics and needs.
Irfan Fakhri Muhammad, Founder of Parakarsa, shared this insight with MSMEs attending the workshop entitled “Building Innovative and Adaptive MSME Businesses through Accurate Market Research,” hosted by the Sadulur Team under the SBM ITB in Bandung on Monday (26/8).
Dr. Tatang Suryana, M.Si, the Secretary of the West Java Provincial Cooperatives and Small Business Office, highlighted the importance of digitalization in MSME management. Dr. Suryana encouraged participants to use government services, including patents and legal support, to strengthen their business positions. He also mentioned that the government, through the SINGAKOTA application, is working to streamline the registration process for MSMEs, particularly in West Java.
SBM ITB organized this event to support MSME actors, especially those from Ciroyom and Cirata Villages, along with several other village areas in West Java. The workshop focused on MSMEs in the food and beverage, fashion, and craft sectors.
In his remarks, Pri Hermawan, S.T., M.T., Dr. Eng., Head of the Decision Making and Strategic Negotiation Scientific Group, expressed hope that the event would have a tangible impact on participants. He emphasized the importance of training and creating collaboration platforms for MSME participants to ensure business sustainability.
Dr. Yunieta Anny Nainggolan, Head of Societal Impact at SBM ITB, stated that the program aims to support government efforts in the economic sector by providing real contributions through Sadulur. “We aim to develop MSMEs in Indonesia across management, HR, finance, business, technology, and negotiation to promote business sustainability,” She explained.
Prof. Dr. Ir. Ignatius Pulung Nurprasetio, M.SME, Dean of SBM ITB, highlighted MSMEs’ significant role in the Indonesian economy. He expressed hope that the Sadulur program, based on research and partnerships with international entities, will optimize the potential of Indonesian MSMEs and contribute to a brighter future for the Indonesian economy.
Meanwhile, Melia Famiola Hariadi, Chair of ESG ITB, underscored the importance of integrating economic growth with environmental considerations. “At SBM ITB, we aim to foster environmentally friendly economic growth and reorganize our civilization’s lifestyle,” she said.
Concluding the event, Santi Novani, S.Si, M.T., Ph.D., Head of the Sadulur Program, introduced the Sadulur application. This application is expected to create a new ecosystem for collaboration between academics and the government, offering essential information for MSMEs, from marketing strategies to business permits, and providing coaching through video modules to enable academics to monitor the performance of personalized MSME businesses.
