Finding "Product-Human Need Fit" in the Post-Covid Era: Insights from Scott Belsky

Finding "Product-Human Need Fit" in the Post-Covid Era: Insights from Scott Belsky

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, society has witnessed a shift in priorities and values. People are no longer satisfied with products and experiences that simply meet their basic needs; they are demanding products that reflect their unique identities and values. This shift has highlighted the importance of finding "product-human need fit" in the post-Covid era.

The impact of the pandemic was felt by all, but it disproportionately affected under-represented communities. These communities, whose basic needs have been overlooked for too long, bore the brunt of the pain. As the world changes and needs evolve, new opportunities for innovation arise. However, it is essential that these opportunities extend to all individuals, not just those with access, privilege, and power.

When considering the concept of "product-market fit," it is crucial to delve into the human motivation behind the consumers these companies serve. Scott Belsky, a seed-stage angel investor, emphasizes the importance of considering "product-human need fit." He argues that a product's story matters, both from the team's perspective and for external marketing. Positioning and narrative are key elements in creating a product that resonates with consumers.

Belsky's investment philosophy revolves around helping early-stage companies in various industries, including consumer, marketplace, and "transformation by interface" spaces. He focuses on crafting the first mile of a product, structuring design-driven product teams, blending copy and UX, optimizing defaults, and utilizing ego analytics. These elements contribute to building exceptional product experiences.

One of Belsky's key insights is the criticality of timing. He believes that the best teams are those that leverage forces already underway to their advantage. They are imaginative and forward-thinking, yet grounded in the present. These teams are driven by empathy for those experiencing the problem they are solving and are never satisfied with the current state of their product. They understand that continuous improvement is vital for success.

In the post-Covid era, it is crucial to address the deprivation of basic human needs that many people face. Movements such as Black Lives Matter, Stop AAPI Violence, and Transgender Rights have shed light on these issues and added to an already unsustainable level of deprivation. To advance as a society, we must ensure that everyone's basic human needs are met.

Taking all of these insights into account, here are three actionable pieces of advice for finding "product-human need fit" in the post-Covid era:

1. Prioritize empathy: Understand the human motivation behind the consumers you serve. Put yourself in their shoes and develop products and experiences that address their unique identities and values.

2. Continuously improve: Never be satisfied with the current state of your product. Embrace a growth mindset and constantly seek ways to enhance and optimize the user experience.

3. Leverage timing: Pay attention to the forces already underway in society and use them to your advantage. Be imaginative and forward-thinking, but also grounded in the present. Understand the needs of your target audience and position your product accordingly.

In conclusion, the post-Covid era calls for a shift in mindset when it comes to product development. Finding "product-human need fit" is crucial to ensure that products and experiences meet the evolving needs and values of individuals. By prioritizing empathy, continuous improvement, and leveraging timing, companies can create products that resonate with consumers and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.