Four Types of Product
If building the right product for the right people is our goal, we know one thing for sure: a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work.
Different product types need different approaches and understanding, especially when we go beyond the conventional boundaries of launching an MVP. Here, we top-line the 4 most common types of product scope that we see come our way: Workflow Products, V2 Products, Innovation Sprints, and Social Products.
Workflow: New Perspectives On Known Problems
These products are not about spending time and money on reinventing the wheel, but leaning into tried and tested known best practices in product design, then improving them and adapting them for a specific product, user, and goal.
V2 : Evolving From The Existing
V2 products describe the evolution of a product that is already in the hands of active users. Critically assessing the existing product is key - seeing what works, what doesn't, and why. The goal is not just to tack on new features, but to refine and rethink the existing product in service of new metrics, growth goals, and ultimately, a better experience for the end user.
Innovation: Leapfrogging The Category
Innovation products demand a leapfrog approach - a bold rethinking of the product structure. This category is made for first movers that have no real precedent or reference point, regardless of whether the innovation is coming from a Founder, or an existing huge enterprise.
Social: Understanding Human Sensitivity and Cultural Nuances
Social products are unique in that they require a deep understanding of human sensitivity and cultural touchstones. These products are less about technical features and more about how they resonate with users on a social and cultural level.
Knowing what kind of product you’re working on can go a long way to helping set the right goals for that product, explore the most relevant processes where they exist, or find the right partners with the right experience to partner with you to get there.