From Features to Feelings: The Secret Sauce Behind Smart Connected Products

In an era where products are no longer isolated objects but part of complex digital ecosystems, the old race to add more features is losing relevance. Instead, companies must focus on crafting experiences that resonate emotionally and functionally with users.

Research shows that up to 60% of features in complex products remain unused, highlighting the futility of feature bloat. The true differentiator is how products integrate seamlessly into users’ lives, adapting to their preferences and contexts.

Both consumers and business customers now demand experiences that are personalized, easy, fast, and emotionally satisfying. For instance, smart vehicles that recognize drivers and adjust seats, music, and safety settings create a unique bond beyond transportation.

In industrial environments, operators benefit from interfaces designed with human factors in mind, reducing errors and fatigue, and improving productivity.

Platforms and ecosystems further enrich experiences by integrating complementary services and products, delivering holistic value beyond individual components.

Engineering such experiences requires cross-functional collaboration, agile development, and continuous user feedback loops.

Ultimately, experience is the new currency that builds customer loyalty, drives revenue, and positions companies for long-term success in the digital economy.

— Sources: Amazon, Kogan Page, Skillsoft 1 2 3