Solve It is a marketing pitch competition focused on a real world problem and you can influence the solution.

This year, you will redefine the physical work environment to foster spontaneous engagement and in-person collaboration, making the worksite of the future not only operationally efficient but also attractive to current and future employees. 

The team at Covestro and Penn State Greater Allegheny assembled important resources you will want to review as you get started on your presentation. The following are offered as resources related to this year’s Solve-It competition problem statement. Include any you use in the one-page document which lists the references you use to develop your pitch. You are not limited to the resources listed below.

Creating Dynamic Spaces for Engagement and Productivity

How can Covestro design office spaces that facilitate spontaneous engagement and encourage in-person collaboration, while allowing for a transition to shared workspaces and hybrid in-person/offsite work models? 

Attractiveness to Employees

What elements should be incorporated into the worksite of the future to make it appealing to current and future employees? This involves not only the physical design but also the amenities and features that promote employee health and well-being while supporting employees’ sense of contentment and engagement. 

Anticipating Future Workforce Expectations

What are the expectations of the future workforce regarding office and workplace design? Understanding and aligning with these expectations are crucial for Covestro to stay ahead in attracting and retaining top talent. 

Employee Buy-In to Return-to-Office:

In the transition towards a more modernized and consolidated office space, how can Covestro ensure employee buy-in to a return-to-office model? This involves addressing concerns, communicating the benefits, and creating an environment that employees are eager to be a part of.

Sustainable Office Design Materials

What is Marketing?  

Marketing pertains to all aspects of a business, including product development, packaging, distribution methods, sales, and advertising. This happens through market research and analysis of what your customers want (product, service or experience), where and how they want it (place, distribution channel) and at what cost/price.   

A company can make customers interested in their products/services/experiences through different ways referred to as Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC). IMC includes:  

  • sales promotions (discounts, coupons etc.);  

  • advertising (e.g. TV, online, print & social media commercials):  

  • Public Relations (e.g. sponsorships etc.);  

  • direct marketing & personal selling (e.g. direct mail, or emails, telemarketers, door-to door sales people); and  

  • internet marketing (use of digital technologies).  

For additional information on the 4Ps of Marketing, click here.  

What is a pitch?

A short and compelling presentation that isn't pushy but rather is persuasive.  Your personality and creativity shines through, engages your audience and motivates them to embrace your vision to solve a problem.

At Solve It, our winning pitch will wow our judges and demonstrate that you are the change makers we need to create a sustainable future. Click here for more tips on creative an effective pitch.