Based on my experience assisting numerous ecommerce brands throughout foundr’s history, one of the most commonly ignored areas is product testing.
Many founders are willing to invest in developing concepts and marketing products, but very few allocate even a fraction of that budget to actually testing their product first.
“It’s not a complicated product” or “I didn’t think there would be any issues” are two common excuses I frequently hear.
However, paying attention to detail will differentiate your brand from the competition, ensure customer satisfaction is not only met but exceeded, and help you establish a brand that is well-prepared for long-term success.
Therefore, let’s explore what product testing is and why it’s worth investing in.
What Is Product Testing?
Product testing refers to the process of analyzing a product concept in more detail, testing out features or functionality to understand how customers may use or interact with it.
It’s surprising how often products have been created in the past for a specific purpose, only to realize quickly that consumers don’t view them the same way.
While having a couple of prototypes during the testing phase is not a problem, having 5,000 useless products is a significant issue.
Don’t Skip: What Is MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)?
Why Product Testing Is So Important
Apart from avoiding anxious moments tracking large shipments of a defunct product, product testing offers several other benefits.
It helps you gain insights early on.
Product testing is crucial for entrepreneurs to gather valuable insights into customer needs and wants, allowing them to adjust products and services accordingly.
Some entrepreneurs avoid this step due to fear of negative feedback, but reframing their mindset is essential. If the product isn’t in demand, what will change before investing thousands in production?
It improves products.
This goes without saying, but product testing consistently enhances products. Entrepreneurs may believe their products are flawless, but they might be too close to notice potential improvements.
By testing products and receiving feedback from the target audience, entrepreneurs may discover aspects they hadn’t considered before.
At the very least, they may receive validation that the product is perfect, but there’s no harm in double-checking.
You’ll save time and money.
Initially, product testing might seem time-consuming and expensive, with additional delivery costs and production steps. However, in the long run, this approach saves time and effort.
For instance, Gretta van Riel, a five-time ecom founder, shared her experience with product testing mishaps at SkinnyMe Tea, emphasizing the importance of thorough testing.
The Different Types of Product Testing
Although product testing may seem straightforward, there are various ways to approach it:
A/B testing: Developing two versions of a product with one differing feature and gathering feedback from the target audience on their preference.
Concept testing: Exploring the feasibility of a potential product idea or concept and seeking feedback from the target audience before production.
Market testing: Sending new products to customers to obtain direct feedback and identify potential issues before mass production.
QA testing: Conducting quality assurance testing to evaluate product functionality and features before launching.
User testing: Releasing products to the public and observing customer interactions for future improvements.
Tips for a Successful Product Testing Process
When advising aspiring founders on product testing, I emphasize three key principles:
- Approach with an open mind: Avoid making assumptions about customer reactions and evaluate feedback objectively.
- Utilize various testing methods: Continuously test throughout development to refine products for the market.
- Continue testing: Even after a successful product launch, prioritize ongoing testing to adapt to market changes and maximize success.
Test, Invest, and be the Best
Now that you understand the significance of product testing, it’s time to implement these insights and elevate your products to new heights. Download our FREE guide of 500 product ideas to set your brand apart and succeed in competitive marketplaces.
Source: ( foundr.com / Financementality.com )
