R&D playbook Untapping Innovation recognised by International Impact Book Awards

Untapping Innovation: An R&D Playbook for Products and Stories That Sell, by Deirdre Walters, Sally Kemkers and Suzanne Allers, has been selected as a Distinguished Author by the International Impact Book Awards. The distinction recognises a limited number of authors whose work demonstrates a meaningful impact on the readers and communities they serve. 

Published by Practical Inspiration Publishing in June 2026, Untapping Innovation draws on the authors’ decades of experience in research and development at Procter & Gamble and their work helping global consumer packaged goods companies develop breakthrough products. Addressing the challenge that 75-85% of consumer product launches fail, the book offers a practical, connected R&D playbook to help teams uncover deeper user insights, make better decisions earlier and turn technical innovation into products that succeed.

The book sets out eight agile tools designed to reduce rework, focus investment and bring R&D, marketing and leadership closer together around what consumers genuinely need. It also explores how emerging trends, including AI, are shaping the future of product development. 

Deirdre Walters, Sally Kemkers and Suzanne Allers are founding partners of Untapped Innovation, a global agency helping R&D teams at companies like PepsiCo, P&G, Unilever, and Reckitt create breakthrough products and compelling product stories. Having met at Procter & Gamble, they combine expertise in user psychology, product insight, and commercial strategy. They all have degrees in science with additional diverse experience - Suzanne's scientific PhD, Sally's consumer insight background, and Deirdre’s experience in manufacturing and marketing - helping them bridge R&D and business functions. Since launching Untapped Innovation in 2012 and working with CPG clients, they have honed their innovation skills while also co-founding STEM Untapped, a non-profit supporting underrepresented students in STEM.

The International Impact Book Awards celebrates authors whose work makes a meaningful contribution to their fields and the communities they serve. The recognition highlights the contribution of Untapping Innovation to the ongoing conversation around how more effective, user-focused innovation is better for consumers and ultimately the businesses that serve them.