Finding “Product-Human Need Fit” in the Post-Covid Era

Hatched by Glasp
Sep 13, 2023
3 min read
1 views
Copy Link
Finding “Product-Human Need Fit” in the Post-Covid Era
Post-Covid, individuals have stronger voices than ever. They are demanding products and experiences that reflect their unique identities and values. The next generation of innovation must extend not just to those with access, privilege, and power, but to those whose basic needs have been overlooked for too long.
While the impact of the pandemic was felt by all, under-represented communities bore an undue proportion of the pain. As the world changes, people adjust, and needs evolve, new opportunities come to life. Digging into the human motivation behind the consumers these companies serve, I would argue that "product-market fit" should really be called "product-human need fit."
Covid's far-reaching impact brought about a different storm altogether: We saw a rare time in modern history when people were universally forced to descend to the most primal levels of the pyramid, no matter what stage they may have attained before. Black Lives Matter, Stop AAPI Violence, Transgender Rights. These and other social and political movements have added to an already unsustainable level of deprivation of basic human needs for many people. Our constant ambition for more efficiency, performance, and achievement is impressive, but has blinded us to the fact that we can't advance humankind if part of our community is struggling to meet basic human needs.
In seeking wisdom, we can learn valuable lessons on becoming outstanding thinkers. Daniel J. Boorstin was right when he said, "The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge." Ignorance may motivate us to pursue our intellectual curiosities, but even as we become experts, it is crucial to keep refining what we know. It's the only way to reinvent ourselves in a rapidly changing world.
Galileo once said, "All truths are easy to understand once they are discovered; the point is to discover them." Albert Einstein also observed that "All of science is nothing more than the refinement of everyday thinking." Unwillingness to learn or improve what we already know is one of the biggest obstacles to personal growth. If we are serious about success but don't value knowledge acquisition, we are wasting our time.
Benjamin Franklin once observed, "Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn." The importance of reading and acquiring knowledge cannot be underestimated. Charlie Munger, the business partner of Warren Buffett, said, "We read a lot. I don't know anyone who's wise who doesn't read a lot. But that's not enough: You have to have a temperament to grab ideas and do sensible things. Most people don't grab the right ideas or don't know what to do with them."
New knowledge improves how we think and make decisions. It guides both our thinking and action. Seeking wisdom is an essential habit of many lifelong learners. It's the only way to avoid terrible decisions that could change the course of our lives. Socrates said, "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing."
In conclusion, as we navigate the post-Covid era, it is crucial to focus on finding "product-human need fit." We must ensure that our innovations and products cater to the diverse needs and values of individuals, especially those who have been historically overlooked. Additionally, seeking wisdom and continuously refining our knowledge is essential for personal growth and success. By embracing lifelong learning, we can make better decisions and contribute to the advancement of humankind.
Actionable Advice:
- 1. Conduct thorough research and engage with diverse communities to understand their unique needs and values. This will help in developing products that truly cater to their requirements.
- 2. Foster a culture of continuous learning within your organization. Encourage employees to read, seek knowledge, and share insights with one another. This will promote innovation and better decision-making.
- 3. Prioritize social responsibility and inclusivity in your business practices. Consider the impact your products or services have on under-represented communities and actively work towards addressing their needs and promoting equality.
Resource:
Copy Link