Stratos

We all know intuitively when we are using a truly great product. There is just something about the experience that leaves a lasting impression. And, while it may be hard to say exactly what that special “something” is, you inherently know when it’s there. So what are these attributes of very best products?

The very best products are Tolerant

All day – every day – we are making mistakes, involved in accidents and cutting corners. Incorrect key strokes, parts installed backwards, dropped items, false starts, skipped steps and re-dos are rampant. With minimum hassle, the very best products tolerate, survive and recover from these mistakes and abuse. We deeply appreciate when the products we buy are robust and discreetly watch out for us without getting in the way.

The very best products Play Well with Others

Interfaces matter. Great products are sensitive to the way they interface with accessories, other products, users and the environment. Interfacing well is a powerful performance enhancer, dramatically increases perceived value and simply adds to the pleasure of using a product. In fact, interfaces that really work may be the most important attribute of a product’s design and can be the difference between success and failure in the marketplace.

The very best products Directly Address a Clearly Defined Need, Want or Problem

Products are “responses” or “solutions” to a customer’s needs, wants or problems. Very best products result when the underlying need, want or problem is defined with sparkling clarity. Clear definition is the foundation on which a great product is built.

The very best products Do What They Do Very Well

Functional focus and carefully selected feature sets are the secrets to products that perform. Products that try to do too much with bloated feature sets result in user frustration, confusion and lumbering performance. A product can’t do everything well, so choose what your product is going to do carefully and be unrelenting in your effort to deliver crisp performance. Your customers will reward you with revenue and accolades.

The very best products Deliver a Great Experience

Best products are cleanly designed and constructed of quality materials. They operate quickly and smoothly, delivering a pleasing level of performance. People are genuinely happy to own them. Best products truly enable, enhance and compliment the abilities of the people who use them. They deliver a great experience every day. When people realize this, they become enthusiastic recommenders, cultish followers and evangelists of the product.

Using a truly great product leaves a lasting impression. What are the attributes of the very best products?