Since HueCubed launched a month ago, I’ve toiled over what new feature(s) should be in Version 1.1.   I want to keep the product simple but I also want to continue to develop a product that meets the needs of potential users.  So, what can I do to make the product better?  There are two key enhancements I’ve been considering.  The first is enhancing the access module.  The second is potentially changing the payment model.

User story 1:  As a new user, I want to gain access to HueCubed, so I can use the product or service. At present, a new user can browse 20 free flashcards.  But, in order to see how they did, they need to create a free account and then log in.  That is a barrier of entry.  I believe I have to make it easier for someone to access the free account features.  Rather than having a unique login from HueCubed, perhaps I should also be using something like Facebook Connect, Twitter, or OAuth.

User story 2: As the creator of the products/services, I want people to pay a reasonable price, so I can continue to develop products and offer more services. Right now, a premium account is $4.99 a month (1,200 flashcards + progress feedback).  Though I intend to offer more services in the future, I expect the average user to use the current offering for 1-3 months.  I have been considering changing the model to a one-time purchase price of $10.

So where does this leave me?  I generally use a  Consultative leadership style.  That is, I generally invite others to provide ideas.  In this case, I have the ideas but I need, what James Surowiecki termed, The Wisdom of Crowds.  So, if you would be so kind, please complete the 2 question survey listed below.  I would be very grateful.

Remember the last time you were at the grocery store and the clerk responded by saying something unrelated to what you asked? This cashier is focused on ringing up your items.  They don’t engage you at all.  No hello; no how are you; no did you find everything.  He or she finishes ringing up all of your items and you forward a have a nice day and they respond with something canned like you’re welcome. You’re welcome?  Did I say thank you? No, I didn’t.  I offered a pleasantry. Just have a nice day.  Goodbye, our business relationship has completed.  Have a nice life.

This is just simple and common courtesy.  It is being polite.  Your parents should have taught you these things as a child.  If you want something, say please. If someone holds the door for you, you damn well better say thank you…and if someone thanks you, say you’re welcome.

So, why do so many people forget this in business?  I understand some customers can be difficult.  I understand user expectations can sometimes be unrealistic.  But let me say this.  Take a minute to listen to what your customer is saying.  You should be polite and courteous to them as often as you wash your hands after going to the bathroom.  If you don’t do that 100% of the time, you have more problems then being polite.  But I digress.

Your customer is THE most important thing in your job.  It’s not the process you follow.  It’s not the product or service you offer.  It’s the customer. Wait, did I say that?  Let me say it again. THE most important thing is the customer.  Listen to them.  Be polite.  Deliver value.

(image from sft.edu)