For Reckitt's Durex condoms, what's the optimal trade-off between enhancing sensation and ensuring reliability?

Introduction

The optimal trade-off between enhancing sensation and ensuring reliability for Reckitt's Durex condoms presents a critical product challenge. This scenario involves balancing user experience with safety, which directly impacts brand trust and market position. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining product features, stakeholder impacts, and potential outcomes, ultimately providing a strategic recommendation.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Based on market trends, I'm thinking sensation enhancement is a key differentiator. Could you share recent customer feedback or survey data on sensation vs. reliability preferences?

Why it matters: Helps prioritize feature development based on user needs Expected answer: Mixed feedback, slight preference for enhanced sensation Impact on approach: Would influence the balance of R&D efforts

• Considering our product lineup, I'm assuming we have multiple condom types. Can you confirm our current product range and their respective market shares?

Why it matters: Informs potential cannibalization or complementary effects Expected answer: Diverse range with varying features and market shares Impact on approach: Would guide product positioning and development focus

• Given the critical nature of reliability, I'm curious about our current failure rates. What are our current reliability metrics compared to industry standards?

Why it matters: Establishes a baseline for acceptable reliability thresholds Expected answer: At or slightly better than industry average Impact on approach: Would set minimum reliability requirements for new designs

• Thinking about manufacturing capabilities, what's our current capacity for introducing new materials or designs?

Why it matters: Determines feasibility and timeline for implementing changes Expected answer: Some flexibility, but significant changes require investment Impact on approach: Would influence the scope and timeline of proposed solutions

• Considering regulatory requirements, are there any upcoming changes in safety standards that might impact our product development?

Why it matters: Ensures compliance and anticipates future requirements Expected answer: Some potential changes in certain markets Impact on approach: Would necessitate a flexible, future-proof design strategy