What is a Product?

Understanding the fundamental definition of a product and what distinguishes it from features, projects, and services

The Core Definition

A product is something created to solve a problem or fulfill a need for users, with a sustainable business model and a complete user experience. It's not just code, design, or featuresβ€”it's the entire package that delivers value.

Think of Spotify: it's not just a music player (feature), it's a complete product that solves music access, discovery, and sharing with a subscription business model, personalized playlists, social features, and cross-device sync.

The Product Equation

Product = Problem Solution + Business Model + User Experience + Scalability

Explore Product Dimensions

V

Value Creation

A product solves a real problem and creates value for users

Real-World Examples
Spotify solves music access
Uber solves transportation
Slack solves team communication

What Makes Something a Product? Quick Quiz

Does it solve a clear user problem?

Is it just a single feature?

Does it have a business model?

Does it provide a complete experience?

Is it a temporary solution?

Key Takeaways

  • β€’Products solve real problems with complete solutions, not just features
  • β€’Every product needs a sustainable business model to survive
  • β€’User experience encompasses the entire journey, not just the interface
  • β€’Scalability determines whether you can reach and serve many users efficiently