Reflection Point: Product Design

Lucas Agro
Aug 23, 2017 · 3 min read

Let’s rewind to the definition of “product”. A product is a created object (a good, service, or other resource) that provides a benefit to someone. For a product to be good it must provide some sort of value that the consumer desires. A good product solves problems and helps the consumer accomplish something more effectively. A great product not only solves problems, but revolutionizes the way we do things.

If we think of the evolution of the portable CD player (or Walkmans), we can see a product go from good to great. With the invention of the portable CD player, consumers were then able to listen to music on-the-go using their portable devices — solving a problem. (From big stationary CD players to smaller portable Walkmans.) When the first iPod came out however, it revolutionized the experience of listening to music. Apple focused a significant deal on its product design, making the device small enough to fit in your pocket. Additionally, the new scroll wheel was a distinct feature that proved to be attractive and provided a different experience in selecting music. Users were also able to sync music from their computers and it was able to hold hundreds of songs all in one compact device. This new ultimate experience that was created with the launch of the iPod is the reason we call it a great product.

Much like physical products, digital products can have a large impact on one’s life as well. Personally, a good digital product that I couldn’t live without would be my mobile banking applications. Quite ironically, although I work for a bank, I use the TD and RBC banking apps on a daily basis. In the busy world we live in today, It can be difficult to find time visit a bank whenever balances need updating or to bills need to be payed— especially when there’s a solution available at your fingertips. The mobile banking apps provide me with the convenience, efficiency and security I need to make my life a little easier.

Much like the TD, RBC, CIBC, BMO (Canadian applications) and other banking apps, there is another digital product that I would consider innovative. That is, Uber. Uber is a mobile transportation app, that scans your location for available drivers and connects you with the closest ride. The user is able to select their destination before hand with the driver being notified. All payments are made automatically through the app using credit card, so not having cash on-hand is not an issue. I consider this app to be a great one because it’s revolutionizing the way humans are able to get around. Although public modes of transportation are still available, Uber has seen great success in our rapidly growing technological generation.

To conclude, good products need to be functional, fulfill needs, user-friendly, and adaptable. Good products help us do things more effectively and provide real value to the consumer. In addition to solving problems, products that are great are those that cause a change in the way we live our lives, and empower us to create satisfying experiences.

Lucas A.

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