Augmented Product
What Is an Augmented Product, and How Does It Work?
An augmented product is one that has been upgraded by the seller with additional features or services in order to set it apart from similar products supplied by rivals. Including intangible advantages or add-ons that go beyond the product itself is what augmenting a product entails.
Free delivery or in-home installation of a service are examples of features utilised to develop enhanced goods. To supplement their products, cosmetics businesses frequently give complimentary makeovers and travel-size samples.
TAKEAWAYS IMPORTANT
There are three versions of any product: the core, the actual, and the enhanced.
The enhanced product includes features and services that set it apart from similar or identical items sold by other merchants.
Product augmentation does not alter the product itself; rather, it adds value to the purchase.
An enhanced product may have a perceived worth that encourages customers to purchase it and allows the supplier to charge a higher price.
What is an Augmented Product and How Does It Work?
Every product has at least three versions, according to marketers: the core, the actual, and the enhanced.
The Main Item
The fundamental product isn't a tangible item. It is the consumer's advantage from the goods. A lipstick, for example, will make its owner more appealing; a IMPORTANT: pair of sneakers will make her healthier; and a smartphone will allow you to converse more effectively.
The Final Product
The item for sale is the real product, which includes the distinctive branding, design, and packaging that comes with it. The actual product, as well as its features, must meet the core-product expectations that customers have for it. To offer the main product and produce consumer value, a car, for example, should work flawlessly with all of its features.
Product Enhancement
The enhanced product includes features and services that set it apart from similar items on the market. The add-ons have no effect on the actual product and may have a little influence on the manufacturing costs. An enhanced product, on the other hand, may have a perceived value that encourages consumers to purchase it. The vendor may be able to fetch a higher price as a result of the enhanced value.
The product being offered is unaffected by augmentation. However, augmentation enhances the consumer's experience and might lead to brand loyalty.
Augmented Products Examples
It's no secret that businesses who can efficiently build augmented products provide a better purchase experience and have a higher chance of creating a loyal consumer base.
Apple TV is a device that allows you to watch
In 2019, Apple Inc. (AAPL) debuted its video and television streaming service. The firm designed an add-on or augmentation for anyone purchasing a device as indicated below from the company's website to raise awareness of the new product and bolster slumping iPhone sales.
"Starting today, consumers who buy any iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, iPod touch, or Mac will receive a free year of Apple TV."
Freebies and discounts
A product augmentation is a discount coupon for a future purchase, as is an offer of a refund if the consumer is disappointed. An enhanced product is a complimentary recipe book given away with the purchase of a kitchen device, such as a crockpot.
Enhanced enhancement is sometimes included with more costly items. Financing for furniture purchases in-store, a free trial, and free delivery are all options that complement the product. To attract new clients, a cable operator competing for new business can offer a more convenient home installation timetable.
Service Makes a Difference
Customer service and shop atmosphere are enhancements that brick-and-mortar businesses include throughout their whole product line. Others include a flexible return policy and in-store demos. With each purchase of culinary goods, a retail outlet may provide complimentary cooking instruction. Apple, for example, teaches and guides customers on how to utilise their goods at their retail stores. Product augmentations include an appealing website that helps buyers learn about a product or service, as well as an online support team.
Consumers have a plethora of choices when it comes to practically any purchase. An enhanced product is designed to stand out from other items or similar products sold by other suppliers.
