Interviews:
1) Justin (close friend) – As a dog owner and outdoor enthusiast, he agreed there was a need for this product both inside and outside of the home. Although he doesn’t really see alternatives, he believes his best bet is to find a shorter heavier cup, like a mug, that has a lower center of gravity and less chance of getting knocked over. Effectiveness is key, seeing as cups and koozies don’t usually cost much anyway. It could be a product sold at any major retailer like Target or Walmart, as it doesn’t demand financing or difficult transportation.
2) David (roommate) – After living with my dog during the past semester, David totally understood why I had come up with this idea. He said if they existed, he would’ve gotten one for me months ago before my dogs wrecking ball of a tail ruined his homework numerous times. “It’s such a simple idea with such a useful application”, and “would’ve saved me time and energy if I had one already”. Again, David believes that the effectiveness of the product and ease of use is what would make it sell and that any dog owner that walked by it while shopping would show interest.
3) Lauren (girlfriend’s roommate) – As the owner of a small dog at home and recently a curious kitten, she wishes this was already on shelves. Small dogs often times jump off your lap and sometimes onto your table, and cats will often just jump up and walk around like it’s all good. In this house, the search for an alternative has yet to occur. Rather, it’s a matter of avoiding the situation entirely, which is often just an inconvenience.
Conclusion:
The alternatives that seem to be the most prominent are short heavy cups that are somewhat stable and have a low center of gravity, or just total avoidance of the situation in the first place. Purchase decisions for these kinds of items seem to be easy for all of those I interviewed. It shouldn’t be an expensive product, around the price for a regular thermal koozie, but it’s value outweighs the cost in that it will potentially save a lot of money for the owners. This has a great effect on the consumers post purchase evaluation of the product as it proves it’s worth and effectiveness.
Max,
ReplyDeleteI like your conclusion and your alternative but I feel like there is no way to avoid situations like these happening. that is why your business opportunity is a very good idea. Especially since it isn't really an expensive item. It is something that is like a household item. People will see when they buy your product how much of good purchase it is and like you said they will see its worth and its effectiveness.
Max,
ReplyDeleteI think the low center of gravity is a good idea, as it’ll keep the cup more “grounded” and potentially prevent spilling over the top. I also agree the product should be affordable and sold at many stores. I think you could prevent spills in lots of different situations with a product like this. I hope a product like this becomes something on shelves soon!
dear maxwell,
ReplyDeletei appreciate your focus on the items use inside and outside, on or off the field. its very beneficial that the purchase decision is so easy for the customers, definitely adds to the products viability. i think this is a great product and will definitely bring buyers to the stores.
Max,
ReplyDeleteYour idea of the thermal koozie serves a great purpose that most people underestimate. I agree that the value outweighs the cost of this koozie because it would save people time and energy from picking up a mess. This product should be affordable and sold at stores all over the country. Its effectivness is great and if I was a customer I would definitely purchase this item.