Friday, December 23, 2011

Step 2: Concept Generation (Part 1)

The next step in this process is to generate concepts which will accurately address the needs of the customers.  In order to quantify each concept's value, however, there must be a standard list of characteristics against which we test them.

For example, although My Little Pony spray paint might be an interesting product, it would probably not meet consumer needs as well as, say, a DVD release (or Blu-ray for you silly ponies), and would thus get a lower score when evaluated.

"Now, just what will be included in this criteria?" you may ask.  A very studious question.  These characteristics can include everything from 'Be Show Accurate' to 'Retail Internationally'.  There is no way one blog-pony such as myself can think up an exhaustive list of all necessary characteristics, however, and that is where you come in.

I will be scheduling an event at CoSketch in which participants will write down everything that is important to them for quality merchandise.  Participants then clump these ideas into piles with other similar ideas and patterns begin to emerge.  This is called the Affinity Process.  It can be a lot of fun and the more participants, the better!

So, I am currently working on writing out clear, concise intructions for that event and will hopefully have it announced through Equestria Daily in the coming week.  Remember, everyone's contribution is incredibly valuable.  Don't hold back!

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