Second place thinking

I think this article points out two things:

1. Verizon doesn't understand the market
2. The problem of thinking your number two.

Clearly Verizon thinks its the touch screen that sells the iPhone and I can't totally disagree. The touch screen is a pretty sexy feature. But its not the only feature that sells the iPhone. Ease of use, intergration, and simplicity--not to mention it is the first phone to be that easy to use with that many features. But hey, if Verizon thinks its the touchscreen--well I guess we will find out if they were right.

Also, it points out the problem with thinking you are number two. Rather than actually listening to the pains in the marketplace, Verizon is deadset to make a phone to carve those iPhone users (or wannabe iPhone users) to their product.

Hey Verizon! Either people want an iPhone or they don't. Period.

So what about all the other underserved Verizon customers who could care less about the iPhone? I believe Verizon would be better served if they listened to their customers and gave the marketplace a product that served their customers needs instead of making a copycat product. WOW-What a concept!?!?! Maybe Verizon should think "Hey Apple has the iPhone, so lets set out to make an innovative flip-phone! And better yet lets ask our customers--the ones who will actually use the product for their input and suggestions".

Alright. So this was a bit of rant. But it bugs me to no end when all companies do to steal marketshare away from each other is copy products. Innovate! Listen to your customers! Why not go in another direction?

Here's an Idea for you...
When you are out talking with your customers-either on a sales call or a presentation. Listen to their pains, their concerns, and most of all their goals. This may sound basic but if all you do is refute your competitors claims you will always be second in the customer's mind.

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