Question 1) From the e-Activity, examine some of the steps that are involved in designing goods and services. Select two services or two products that are currently on the market. Use the text to compare and contrast each step, and determine the similarities and areas where they differ.

Several steps go into the success of a product, including research and development, implementation and improvement. While nearly every company out there is in business to make money, hurrying a product to market without working out all the issues can cost the company ten fold in the long run, after the recalls and lawsuits are complete. While R&D is often viewed as a hindrance to revenue if the senior leadership feel as though it is "good enough", implementation or going to market at the right time is vital.

Even if you have a great product, if it is overshadowed by another product, the possibilities may never be relegalized. This was the case with Tivo. While ahead of its time, it never caught on due to poor marketing strategy and unclear technological explanations. Whereas Apple has endeared itself to the American culture, Apple advertises its products as an accompaniment to our everyday life.

Question 2) From the e-Activity, suggest at least two changes to specific areas of the process design phase that may lead to improvement in operations. Provide a rationale to support your suggestion.

Please respond and comment to this discussion no less the 175 words base on 1 credible resource

Utilizing the direct feedback from focus groups is a great way to get valid, tangible information on the pros and cons of your product. For example, when Ford introduced the step up tailgate, they interviewed several agricultural and construction employees to see of that idea would be a viable add on for truck guys. Another change that can be made to the market step, giving functional samples away to the focus group to ensure the product performs as it is intended and where applicable. CompTIA, a computer certification company did this with their cloud certification when it was first introduced. In order to test the validity of the new exam, they contacted those that held certifications through their company to offer the chance to take the test for free and earn another cert. Who better to test the functionality of the criteria than by those in the industry. All it cost the company was waiving the testing fee. This was a huge success as they received in depth analysis and breakdown on the questions contained in the exam.