"From Prototype to Production": Innovation Symposium at ITB Innovation Park

Bandung, dkst.itb.ac.id – On Tuesday (April 22), ITB Innovation Park hosted the symposium "From Prototype to Production", a forum discussing the dynamics of transitioning from a prototype to a product ready for mass production and commercialization. This activity was organized by Sindikat PAU in collaboration with the Directorate of Science and Technology Area (DKST) ITB, presenting several experienced practitioners who have been directly involved in developing technological innovations in the industrial sector.

Speakers who attended the discussion included Buntoro from the Mega Andalan Kalasan Group and Gustaff H. Iskandar from Common Room. The discussion session was moderated by Budi Rahardjo, an academic and technology figure who is also the initiator of Sindikat PAU.

During the experience-sharing session, the speakers emphasized the importance of understanding real challenges in the field, which often do not align with the ideal narratives developing in the startup ecosystem. "It takes a lot of luck to be successful in the industry," said Buntoro, while underlining the importance of sharpness in decision-making as well as a simple yet efficient approach to business execution. He gave an example of his experience when first building a business, "Doing simple using spreadsheets," he said, explaining how he conducted daily manual data analysis to understand market patterns and needs before using more complex digital systems.

The discussion then evolved into a systemic approach to innovation—starting from the process of identifying needs, utilizing data and science, to implementation that considers the social context and is based on empathy towards users, especially the community. What was interesting about this event was not only the technical insights but also the attitude and spirit transmitted in the development of socio-technopreneur-based businesses.

The event lasted all day and concluded with an informal networking session and a mini-exhibition showcasing various products created by members of Sindikat PAU and its partners. The lunch session served as an additional discussion space where participants delved into technical challenges and cross-sector collaboration strategies.

This forum serves as a reminder that innovation is not just about big ideas, but about the courage to start, consistency in execution, and the ability to learn from the process. In this context, Sindikat PAU is present as a collective learning ecosystem, a place where ideas are tested through practice and prepared to make a real contribution to society.

About Sindikat PAU

Sindikat PAU is an informal network formed on the basis of a collaborative spirit across fields: technology, academia, industry, and community. The name "PAU" refers to the Inter-University Center (Pusat Antar Universitas), a building at ITB that has long been a collaborative space for cross-disciplinary research. Today, Sindikat PAU plays a role as a driving force for various discussion forums, creative initiatives, and socio-technological experiments aimed at bridging academic research with its application in the real world.