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

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

In the post-Covid era, individuals have become more vocal about their needs and expectations. They are no longer satisfied with products and experiences that do not reflect their unique identities and values. As the world changes and people adjust, it is crucial for businesses to recognize and meet these evolving needs.

The pandemic has had a profound impact on everyone, but it has disproportionately affected under-represented communities. The pain and hardships experienced by these communities have underscored the importance of addressing their basic needs. It is no longer enough for companies to focus solely on those with access, privilege, and power. The next generation of innovation must extend to those who have been overlooked for far too long.

When we talk about "product-market fit," it is essential to consider the human motivation behind the consumers that companies serve. Instead of solely focusing on the market, we should shift our perspective and prioritize "product-human need fit." This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and meeting the fundamental needs of individuals.

The impact of Covid-19 forced people to confront their most primal needs. Regardless of their previous stage in life, individuals were universally affected and had to adapt to challenging circumstances. This shared experience revealed the urgency of addressing basic human needs for all members of society. Movements like Black Lives Matter, Stop AAPI Violence, and Transgender Rights have shed light on the unsustainable deprivation faced by many individuals.

In our relentless pursuit of efficiency, performance, and achievement, we have overlooked the fact that we cannot progress as a society if a significant portion of our community is struggling to meet their basic needs. It is crucial for businesses to recognize this and take action to bridge the gap. By addressing these needs, companies can contribute to the overall well-being of society and create a more inclusive and equitable future.

Now, let's shift our focus to another aspect of building successful products - referral programs. Referral marketing has become an essential strategy for businesses to acquire new customers and reduce acquisition costs. People are more likely to use a product or service if it is recommended by a friend or colleague. Referrals not only build trust but also serve as a powerful form of social proof.

To build an effective referral program for your web app, here are three actionable tips:

• 1. Use internal currency as a reward: One effective way to incentivize referrals is to offer internal currency as a reward. This currency can be in the form of credits, points, or exclusive features that can be unlocked. By providing users with a tangible benefit for referring their friends, you increase the likelihood of them actively participating in your referral program.

• 2. Integrate the referral program into your onboarding process: Make the referral program an integral part of your onboarding process. When new users sign up for your web app, introduce them to the benefits of referring their friends right from the start. By incorporating the referral program into the onboarding flow, you ensure that users are aware of the opportunity to share and refer others.

• 3. Make sharing easy and visible: Ensure that your referral program is easily accessible and visible to users. Place it in a prominent location within your web app, such as the dashboard or settings page. Additionally, make sharing as effortless as possible by providing pre-populated referral links or social sharing buttons. The easier it is for users to share, the more likely they are to spread the word about your product.

In conclusion, the post-Covid era has highlighted the importance of finding "product-human need fit." Businesses need to prioritize understanding and addressing the evolving needs of individuals, especially those who have been historically overlooked. Additionally, incorporating referral programs into your web app can be a powerful way to acquire new customers and reduce acquisition costs. By implementing these actionable tips, you can create a product that not only meets the needs of your target audience but also benefits society as a whole.