Product Design Writing: A Reflection
- What makes a product good? What makes a product great?
I think there are qualities which good products take when considering the users; tangible qualities, they take into account the pain point the user has and tries to solve this issue with the product itself. It’s functional and simple it works the right amount to function and solve the issue, but it does not exceed or necessarily meet intangible qualities.
Now when we consider a truly great product we can see the tangible and intangible qualities it addresses. Not only does the product relieve the pain point of the user, but it also exceeds this. The user feels the intangible qualities of the product; the product could makes them feel better about themselves, about their social status, or their trendiness etcetera. It allows the user to connect to the product at a deeper level and in the end this makes for more devoted users.
- What personally attracts you to Product Design?
Design is essentially creative problem solving. What attracts me to product design is this very fact, being able to solve a common issue through a product. I use products every single day and I see the value in the evolution of technology and products and I want to be a part of this world.
- What is a digital product that you can’t live without? What problems does it solve for you?
I think there are several products that I would be lost without. For starters I’d say my iPhone simply because it allows me to stay on schedule whether it’s for waking up or studying etc, i have reminders on my phone to keep me accountable. I also use music streaming services every single day, in fact I'm using it right now as I type. ( I need background noise when I study! haha) I’m what would be called an audiophile: I love discovering quality music, making music, and sharing music. The app I specifically use everyday is Soundcloud because I follow many independent artists from around the world and it solves my need for music discovery and rapid streaming.
- What is a digital product that you consider innovative? Why is it so?
I recently discovered upon visiting a pub with some friends and paying one single check that an app called “Venmo” existed. The app basically allows you to pay your friends with the click of a button. Say you forgot to bring cash, then you could simply send money via the app to the person that paid for you. It also allows you to see who paid who and what date for record keeping. I thought this was a very easy way to settle accounts at the spot. We’ve all had those days out with friends where someone is left paying the whole tab and never getting paid back (oops! haha) this is a quick fix to this.
- What’s a product you feel “addicted to,” or otherwise feel negatively habituated?
Once again I’d definitely have to say Soundcloud. I’m very much addicted to the app, like I’m always on it most of the day addicted. (send me to rehab please!). At work I play music all the time it just keeps me awake and motivated and entertained as well. I have to be doing multiple things at once or at least listening to something while working/studying in order to be more efficient (which is odd) but the app allows me to do just this. I have something to listen to and make my day more enjoyable while discovering new and cool sounds constantly.