Navigating the Tech Landscape: Building Products, Articulating Vision, and Convincing Users

In the world of technology, the saying “get customers before building the product” is a widely shared mantra for startup success. However, this adage, while valuable in many business contexts, may not perfectly align with the unique challenges faced by creators of cutting-edge tech products. Unlike traditional commodities or services, many tech innovations require a different approach — a dance between visionary creation and user understanding.

The Visionary Challenge

Consider the scenario of introducing a revolutionary tech product to potential users who may not immediately recognise its value or even realise their need for it.

Take, for example, pitching a sophisticated chat bot like ChatGPT to friends five years ago. The concept of a powerful language model capable of diverse applications might have sounded abstract or unnecessary to those unfamiliar with the possibilities.

A lot of people including me used to make fun of AI like they are nothing but if else, someone is answering behind the door, there are logic for everything defined etc etc.

In the tech space, entrepreneurs often find themselves in the role of visionary pioneers. They’re tasked with conceiving products that redefine how we interact, work, and live. The challenge lies not only in the creation of these innovations but also in articulating the vision in a way that resonates with potential users.

Building First, Convincing Later

For many tech products, the process involves creating the product first and then showcasing its capabilities to potential users. Unlike essential commodities like food, where the need is evident, tech innovations may not be immediately understood or appreciated.

Consider the analogy of a food ordering application. Imagine trying to convince someone living next to their favorite restaurant to use a food delivery app. They might question the need, stating, “Why would I use an app when I can simply walk to the restaurant? It’s just outside my house.” In this scenario, the convenience of the app becomes evident only when its features — such as diverse menu options, doorstep delivery, and time-saving benefits — are demonstrated.

The Power of Demonstration

In the tech space, the axiom “build it, and they will come” often rings true. Innovation has the inherent power to spark interest and captivate audiences. However, this potential remains dormant until the product is showcased and its value demonstrated. Users need to see how a tech product can address their pain points, enhance efficiency, or simply make their lives better.

The act of showcasing becomes a critical component of gaining user trust and fostering adoption. Whether through live demonstrations, trial versions, or detailed presentations, the ability to tangibly convey a product’s capabilities becomes central to its success.

Nurturing User Understanding

As creators and innovators, the onus lies on us to bridge the gap between vision and user understanding. This involves effective communication, storytelling, and a relentless commitment to showcasing the transformative power of the technology. Each product has a unique narrative, and it’s our responsibility to narrate it in a way that resonates with our audience.

The Journey of Innovation

Building tech products involves navigating a dynamic landscape where the conventional wisdom of customer-first approaches may need to be complemented by a visionary understanding of the potential impact of the innovation. It’s a journey that requires a delicate balance between creation and communication, where the end goal is not just to build products but to shape the future.

In conclusion, the process of building tech products involves a nuanced interplay between visionary creation, demonstration of value, and user adoption. While the saying “get customers before building the product” holds its place in traditional business contexts, the dynamic and evolving nature of the tech industry often demands a different approach — a journey where innovation sparks interest, and convincing users comes through the powerful act of showcasing what the future holds.

Thanks everyone for reading the article. Clap if you liked it, share with your friends and don’t forget to connect with me on social network.

I tweet at — https://twitter.com/ujjwal_kr_gupta
I share my insights at — https://www.linkedin.com/in/ujjwalkrgupta/
I code at — https://github.com/ujjwalguptaofficial