| This is a method used for “new product development”, “the current product”, or “changes in an existing product”. The goal of the product test is to understand the attitudes of “current consumers”, “competition consumers”, or “potential consumers” regarding the product. The goal is an evaluation and figuring out the qualities of the product, its “strengths” and “weaknesses” in the eyes of the consumers and an uncovering of their needs and suggestions accordingly.
Product tests can be either “unbranded (blind)” or “branded” in new product designs or current products. Considering the consumers will be influenced by brand-based advantages or disadvantages, it is suggested that the changes in the current product be tested blind at the first stage.
When a new product is to be launched, a product test needs to be conducted to see the consumers’ reaction to the product and defining the next steps accordingly. Product tests can be done in all product categories from perishable to non-perishable consumption products.
For long-term use product tests (in-home visit tests), a sample group representative of the target audience is given the “branded” or “blind” product along with instructions of use and asked to use/test the product for a pre-established period of time. Following this period, the users in the sample group are asked for an evaluation.
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