Product Development

Defined a product strategy for a reference publisher’s next generation of digital products. Using both online surveys and in-depth interviews with academic librarians and scholars, we identified and prioritized the needs of various higher-education market segments, determined their packaging and pricing preferences, and identified other key product requirements. Armed with these findings, we constructed a product plan targeting the most critical market needs.

A major financial processor hired us to examine the feasibility of turning its in-house transactional data into information products. We prototyped several potential products and then conducted in-depth market research with potential customers. Our work validated the need for a selected number of these products and went on to identify a number of critical product requirements, thereby enabling our client to focus its development activities.

An online information service wanted to expand its content into new areas. We were commissioned to put together content plans, including a recommended scope of content, a scan of potential suppliers, and intelligence on the availability of this information in electronic form. Based on our information, the client was able to negotiate favorable agreements to acquire data from external suppliers.

A major online database vendor retained us to validate a new product concept. We did an extensive review of the proposed product and conducted in-depth competitive analysis of a leading incumbent vendor. As a result, we were able to recommend product enhancements that enabled our client to successfully differentiate its product from competitive products.

A provider of electronic services to corporations commissioned us to evaluate a new product concept. We did a market study based on in-depth interviews with a broad sample of customers and prospects. As a result of our recommendations, our client was able to change the product so that it would better conform to customers' technology environments.

An established provider of business databases retained us to help it reposition and enhance an existing product in response to newer products from competitors. We performed a comprehensive analysis of the major competitors' products, delivery systems, pricing, and business practices. Using our findings, our client was able to incorporate key features and make its product competitive.

A financial database company engaged us to help it develop an online service. From product concepts, we created and documented a detailed product plan and architecture along with an implementation strategy. We were then able to help the client identify and negotiate with potential software developers and network partners.