How to grow an idea into a great product

Discover the secrets of product design, the art of feedback and the nuances of customer adoption. In the third edition of Pause Fest’s online BREAK–THROUGH Sessions titled ‘How to quantify an idea?’

In a recent panel discussion, we had the privilege of hearing from three excellent speakers: Nima Idel from loop.it, Aniyo Rahebi from Good-Edi and Amir Ansari, a renowned Design Leader. Their insights into the startup, product design and customer experience provided invaluable guidance for budding entrepreneurs looking to grow their ideas. 

Here are the takeaways from the session and the YouTube video you can watch is embedded below. 

Knowing When to Pivot or Abandon an Idea

Nima Idel, loop.it: “Innovation is crucial, but it’s essential to recognise when you’re facing insurmountable barriers. If the data consistently shows that your solution isn’t resonating with your target audience, it might be time to pivot or reconsider.”

Hacking Your Way to Valuable Feedback

Aniyo Rahebi, Good-Edi: “Feedback is gold. Whether it’s through surveys, social media, or direct interactions, every piece of feedback is an opportunity to refine your product. But remember, it’s not just about quantity; it’s about quality. Targeted feedback from your core audience can be more valuable than generic feedback from a broader group.”

The Delicate Balance of Listening to Users

Amir Ansari, Design Leader: “While user feedback is invaluable, it’s essential to differentiate between the noise and genuine insights. Users might not always know what they want, but observing their behaviour can provide clues about their needs. It’s not about asking direct questions but understanding their pain points through observation.”

Stellar Product Design: A Real-World Example

Nima Idel, loop.it: “One of the tools that have revolutionised my daily workflow is Notion. It’s not just about its functionality but how it addresses multiple user needs in a seamless and intuitive manner. A true testament to thoughtful product design.”

Testing the Market: Strategies for Genuine Feedback

Aniyo Rahebi, Good-Edi: “Before diving deep into production, it’s crucial to test the waters. Whether it’s through market stalls, crowdfunding, or beta testing, getting your product in front of real users can provide invaluable insights. It’s not about perfection; it’s about iteration based on real-world feedback.”

The Impact of the Customer Adoption Lifecycle

Amir Ansari, Design Leader: “Every product goes through an adoption lifecycle. Understanding where your product fits into this cycle, from early adopters to the late majority, can significantly impact your go-to-market strategy. Tailoring your approach based on this lifecycle can be the difference between success and stagnation.”

The insights shared by these industry leaders, and Pause Awards judges, emphasise the importance of user-centric design, the value of genuine feedback, and the need to be agile and adaptive in the ever-evolving business landscape. 

Book next sessions here: https://lu.ma/BREAK-THROUGH