Solving a Problem with Design Thinking: Part 1
Observation is an underappreciated source of startup ideas. Design flaws are all around us. Yet there is very little innovation around these. Let us look at some examples from our daily lives:
This is why I love the KISS principle. Hide the complexity, and expose the simplicity to the end-user. A good way to put this to test is to ask someone outside of that industry to install and use the product. If this gets done, it is a major step towards better design.
Upcoming Note:
- Spare Tire: Tire manufacturers made the spare tire smaller to conserve space. One can drive only short distances and at a slower speed with a spare tire. What if a person is driving through inclement weather and the nearest shop is quite far?
- College Curriculum: Success in almost all professions involves inter-disciplinary skills and knowledge. But colleges continue with rigid curriculums that are almost legacy. Computer Science degree means Computer Science courses only. Forget about adding anything to do with liberal arts and communication.
- Software: Over 80% of software users use less than 20% of features, yet pay for the full price. Why hasn't software pricing become modular to reflect usage?
- User Manuals: If a product needs a user to go through the user manual, chances are there will be less adoption. Why aren't most products intuitive enough that an average person can install and use? Had it not been for a helpful friend, it would have taken me too long to install a new garage door opener.
- Wooden Fences: Most homes and buildings in the U.S. have wooden fences to mark the boundary. These do last a long time since they have undergone treatment. But it still involves cutting down trees and depleting a precious natural resource.
- Vehicles: Most passenger vehicles run below capacity. Over 95% of the time, there is only one passenger, i.e., the driver using a five-seat vehicle. Smaller vehicles aren't that cheap and two-wheelers aren't considered safe.
- Buildings: Very few buildings harness all the natural elements: rainfall, wind and sun. Solar has seen decent adoption, but the first two areas are ripe for innovation.
- Homes: Once built, bear it forever. No way to re-configure most homes except small changes. How about re-configure the extra garage space for the kids play area? Split a bedroom to double as a home office during work hours?
This is why I love the KISS principle. Hide the complexity, and expose the simplicity to the end-user. A good way to put this to test is to ask someone outside of that industry to install and use the product. If this gets done, it is a major step towards better design.
Upcoming Note:
- Solving a Problem with Design Thinking - Part 2
Let's Talk: If you have a true experience that resonates, please send me an email.
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