In a like manner, much of the angst in product development is self-imposed because of similar compartmentalizing between the development participants, which causes a product definition to be viewed 'locally - from the perspective of my compartment'. That is, hardware and software designers, regulatory engineers, production, quality and marketing people often consider and design from product criteria only within their domain of knowledge or interest; thus the total product definition can be insufficiently determined during development. Also, anxious stakeholders' can push hard for 'least expensive', quick and perfect 'right outta the chute' execution because of their compartmentalized expectations and, again, lack of a 30,000 foot view. This systemic innocence can damage a product's chances for success.

So, let's take a look at some of the ways the product mentors can interact to change each other's effect on a product's definition. The intent herein is to raise some of the common issues that need be 'whole-istically' considered.

Use your experienced team members or people you know who are knowledgeable of these topics; don't try to do it all yourself - unless you know it all. An experienced and diverse team comes much closer to perfection than any one person does. But also remember that 'searching for perfection can prevent attaining the satisfactory'. Proper balance comes from experience, not prognostication, shooting-from-the-hip or wishing.

What are the demographics, psychographics and ethnographics of the intended users? Are the users old or young... or both? For example, safety issues are different (legally) for "under-age" than for "adults" with many products.

What are the environmental challenges? Are the markets in the European Union, China, South America, the USA... where? Many environmental 'laws' are being implemented in most of the major markets. Beware of the consequences. ²

Where is the product to be used - in the heat, the snow, under rugged handling conditions? If it is classified as 'portable' then you can be gal dang sure the user will take it anywhere s/he can manage. So... is your product up to it? Will it operate OK in Alaska in the middle of winter? How about Arizona or Washington DC in the middle of summer? ³

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² The Effect of Environmental Laws, Policies and Standards On the Product Development Lifecycle
³ What Every Product Development Manager and Executive Need to Know about Product Testing for Unexpected Wear & Tear