The Power of Design: How Pinterest Transformed from a Simple Idea to a Global Phenomenon

The Power of Design: How Pinterest Transformed from a Simple Idea to a Global Phenomenon

When it comes to creating successful products, understanding the difference between a feature and a product is crucial. A feature provides a solution for a specific situation, while a product goes beyond that and offers solutions for a range of situations within a situational segment. The key to creating successful products lies in making existing behaviors more efficient or building upon them to empower and enable new ones.

Pinterest, a social media platform that allows users to discover and save ideas for various interests, is a prime example of a product that has achieved tremendous success by understanding this distinction. The story of Pinterest's journey, from its early days to its IPO, sheds light on the power of design and focus in building a global phenomenon.

Unlike many other startups, Pinterest did not follow the conventional wisdom of having a technical founder. Instead, founders Ben and Evan played to their strengths and stuck with their design-centric approach. This decision turned out to be a game-changer for the company. By focusing on perfecting Pinterest's design and user experience, rather than getting caught up in the attention and distractions of press, the small team was able to create a platform that resonated with users.

One of the key factors behind Pinterest's success was its ability to tap into the power of inspiration. Katie Evans, a designer at Kate Spade, perfectly summed up the appeal of Pinterest when she said, "Pinterest is one of the tabs that I keep up on screen all day long. I love exploring what other people are pinning." The platform became a go-to destination for users seeking inspiration for various aspects of their lives, from fashion and home decor to recipes and travel ideas. Pinterest's pinner community embraced the platform as a tool for seeking inspiration, which in turn allowed the company to influence shoppers "mid-funnel."

Pinterest's growth trajectory is nothing short of remarkable. The company started with just five employees and no revenue, operating out of a cramped Palo Alto apartment in 2011. Fast forward to the present, and Pinterest boasts a team of approximately 1,800 members and generates over $750 million in revenue. Its offices span across the globe, a testament to its global reach and impact.

So, what can we learn from Pinterest's success story? Here are three actionable pieces of advice that can be gleaned from their journey:

• 1. Focus on perfecting the user experience: Pinterest's emphasis on design and user experience set it apart from its competitors. By prioritizing the quality of their product, the team was able to create a platform that resonated with users and kept them coming back for more. Take the time to understand your users' needs and preferences, and prioritize creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for them.

• 2. Embrace your strengths: Pinterest's decision to stick with its design-centric approach, rather than blindly following conventional wisdom, paid off in the long run. Identify your strengths as a company or individual and leverage them to your advantage. Play to your strengths and carve your own path, even if it goes against the norm.

• 3. Tap into the power of inspiration: People are always seeking inspiration, whether it's for their personal style, home, or hobbies. Find ways to tap into this innate human desire and provide a platform or product that allows users to discover and save ideas that inspire them. By becoming a trusted source of inspiration, you can build a loyal user base and influence their decision-making process.

In conclusion, Pinterest's journey from a small team in a cramped apartment to a global phenomenon is a testament to the power of design and focus. By understanding the difference between a feature and a product, and by prioritizing the user experience, Pinterest was able to create a platform that resonated with users and became an integral part of their lives. By embracing their strengths and tapping into the power of inspiration, Pinterest transformed a simple idea into a global success story.