New Products need People to Survive

It used to be that people needed products to survive. Now products need people to survive. ~Nicholas Johnson

Not surprising, with consumerism being the norm these days.

I used to have a green fan sitting on my desk. I remember my father used to take it apart every fortnight to give it a thorough wipe down and wash the metal casing to prevent any rusting. That green fan faithfully served me through out my years in elementary school and beyond. Only when I was in high school did my father retire it with regrets.

Back then, things were built to last. Not any more. For the last 10 years, I believe I have bought more than 6 to 7 fans. Somehow, they don’t last as long as my faithful green fan. And no, I didn’t turn abusive as I age. I’m one of those rare specimen who still believe in sending damaged products for repairs. Even when I have to dump beyond-repair goods, I usually place them in recycle bins.

Naturally, my mum laments “Things are not sturdy any more.” She has a similar experience. After her 26-year-old Kelvinator refrigerator died of old age, she also had to replace her fridge once every two or three years.

My answer to mum is “If things were build to last. Many people will be out of a job.”.

With consumerism raging and the promiscuity of consumers who prefer to have the newest model, newest look, newest toy in the town, it behooves the old brands to update themselves regularly to stay in touch with their customers’ swaying loyalty. As for the new kid on the block, the products basically must be of good quality, look great and price well. Otherwise, good luck!