Competition Strategy – Dealing with the Competition
Consumer and business markets have distinct characteristics by which they function. Earlier, importance was given mainly in understanding customer and their business. But in this age of technology and globalization companies cannot afford to ignore competition. Many companies are lowering their cost by outsourcing production to Asian countries. Companies must keep an eye on strategies […]
Service Product Management: An Oxymoron or a Reality?
Till now, we have considered how product management is done in companies that have different product lines and brands. Now, in this article, we would consider whether the term service product management or the process of managing the entire lifecycle of services is an oxymoron or is indeed a concept that is realistic and feasible. […]
Classification of Retail Formats, Key Features, Advantages and Disadvantages
Retail Formats can be classified into the following categories: Store Based: Store based formats can be further classified into two formats based on the basis of Ownership or Merchandise offered. Non Store Based Classification: Non Store retail organizations focus on establishing direct contact with the consumer. This may be both personal (direct personal selling) and […]
Managing the Sales Force
The face of any organization is the sales force. Companies spend a considerable amount of time and money on sales force rather than on any other promotional activity. However, sales force is expensive and companies are looking forward to managing them in an efficient and effective manner. Designing of the Sales Force Sales force is […]
What is Multi Level Marketing?
Network marketing or Multi Level Marketing has caught on the fancy of people across the globe and as on date there are thousands who have made their millions through being a part of Network marketing. The success stories of such millionaires from US, Australia and UK etc are being published as a part of the […]
Introducing a new product in the market requires meticulous planning and relevant ideas put together after several rounds of discussions and brainstorming sessions among employees associated with the organization. There are several factors which go a long way in deciding how and when a new product should be launched so that it is not only accepted well by the target audience but also outshine competitor’s offerings.
Let us understand the factors in detail:
The first and foremost deciding factor for an organization to launch a new product or service is to understand whether it has individuals who are equipped with right knowledge and skills to contribute effectively towards manufacturing a new product or designing a new service. Identify individuals who you think have the passion to think out of the box and can be a part of the product development team. Not every person is capable of doing things differently.
Organization needs to be very careful while picking candidates as one wrong individual and he/she would screw up the entire process. Infrastructure, raw materials, machinery, reliable vendors and so on also play an important role in deciding the development of new products. Organizations need to ensure that they have the latest technology and adequate power back up before they decide to manufacture a new product.
Once the product team is finalized, individual’s concerned need to sit together on a common platform to brainstorm and discuss as to what all features and specifications they would like to see in their new product.
Competitor analysis is extremely crucial at this stage. Carefully study their website, brochures, catalogues to understand what all they are offering so that you design a product which is not only better than them but also provides additional features and benefits.
Trust me, in today’s scenario, only the best survive and rest all perish in no time. Lay emphasis on research and development. Do not ignore minor things. In most of the cases, minor problems ignored in the initial stages lead to serious complications later on.
Prepare a checklist and make sure you have checked each and every minute detail before finally deciding on the new product. Everything has to be on paper. In most of the cases, people forget verbal discussions, the moment they step out of the meeting room. Do not ignore the risk factors involved with the launch of a new product or service. Ask questions among yourselves.
For example - If you own a travel company and decide to introduce a new and exclusive package for your loyal clients, do keep in mind the demerits or problems which might crop up at later stages and whether you are ready to face customer complaints or any other adverse situation and come out with a solution.
Funds available with the organization certainly play an essential role in deciding a new product. If you do not have adequate funds, identify an external party /bank that can finance you throughout product development. Budgets need to be allocated carefully.
Another important factor deciding the development and eventually launch of new products is definitely working on the marketing and promotion strategies. Even the best of product would lose its charm if it is not promoted well. Find out a good advertising agency to design catchy promotional materials which attract your target audience, make them aware of the USPs of your products and finally prompt them to invest in the same.
After sales service is something which should never be ignored especially when you are planning to launch a new product or service.
Proper planning is important. Teams need to coordinate among themselves and deadlines need to be strictly adhered to. Make sure your quality team is in place which ensures final product is market ready with no defects.
As an organization, you need to know your objective of introducing a new product in the market and how this product will increase your revenues. Goals need to be clear.
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