You can’t just ask customers what they want and then try to give that to them. By the time you get it built, they’ll want something new.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote challenges the conventional approach to customer satisfaction and highlights the need for forward-thinking and innovative solutions. It suggests that simply asking customers about their current needs and desires may not be sufficient in meeting their long-term expectations. By the time a product or service is developed based on those initial preferences, customer demands may have evolved, and they may already be seeking something new.
The quote underscores the importance of anticipating and staying ahead of customer needs, rather than merely reacting to their immediate requests. It encourages businesses and individuals to adopt a proactive mindset, constantly seeking ways to innovate and provide value that goes beyond surface-level desires. Successful companies often differentiate themselves by offering products or services that customers didn't even realize they needed until they were introduced to them.

In essence, this quote emphasizes the significance of understanding the underlying motivations and aspirations of customers. It urges businesses to delve deeper into consumer behavior, analyze trends, and identify emerging needs and preferences. By doing so, organizations can develop innovative solutions that not only meet current demands but also anticipate future desires, thereby staying ahead of the competition.
Ultimately, this quote serves as a reminder that true customer satisfaction and business success come from a combination of actively listening to customers, understanding their unmet needs, and continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation to provide solutions that surpass their expectations. It encourages a proactive and customer-centric approach that goes beyond simply reacting to what customers say they want in the present moment.
Who said the quote?
The quote "You can't just ask customers what they want and then try to give that to them. By the time you get it built, they'll want something new." was said by Steve Jobs (Bio / Quotes). Steve Jobs was a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple Inc.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.