How Do You Build Something People Want?

Contributor - Bhavana Ramesh
January 16, 2025
6 min read

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Not all creations are destined to be loved. But some become indispensable. They solve real problems, resonate deeply, and leave their mark. So, how do you create something people actually want? Justin Jackson, a serial entrepreneur and product thinker, asks a simple yet profound question: “Who wants this?” This question, deceptively basic, is the cornerstone of building something that thrives.

The Pitfall of Building in Isolation

Many creators fall into the trap of building in a vacuum. They’re inspired by a shiny idea, pour months into perfecting it, and then—crickets. Why? Because they’ve built something they think people should want, rather than identifying what people already crave. The market isn’t a blank canvas; it’s a bustling bazaar teeming with existing solutions. To succeed, you need to observe, listen, and empathize with real needs. Ignoring this can result in a product that feels disconnected, no matter how technically brilliant or innovative it seems.

The "Want" Equation: Addressing Pain and Desire

At the core of every successful product is a clear understanding of human motivation. People seek products for two main reasons:

To solve a problem (relieve pain).
To fulfill a desire (enhance pleasure).

Consider Slack or Zoom. These tools didn’t just materialize out of thin air; they identified pain points in workplace communication and solved them with intuitive, scalable solutions. Conversely, brands like Peloton tap into the desire for an exclusive fitness experience, transforming exercise into a status symbol.

Pain and desire operate on a spectrum, and successful products often address both. The iPhone, for instance, solved the pain of clunky, disconnected mobile experiences while fulfilling the desire for sleek, futuristic technology. By tapping into both aspects, products can create a powerful connection with their audience.

Validating Your Idea: The Crucial Step

Before building, validate. Ask yourself:

Who needs this? Identify your target audience. Who are they? What do they do? What keeps them awake at night?
How do they solve this problem now? Study existing solutions. Are they clunky, overpriced, or ineffective?
Would they pay for a better solution? If people aren’t willing to exchange money or time for your product, it might not be as essential as you think.

Validation isn’t about formal surveys or focus groups. It’s about real conversations. Talk to potential users, immerse yourself in online forums, and observe where frustrations bubble to the surface. Often, the most valuable insights come from understanding not just what people say, but how they behave.

Embracing Iteration and Feedback

The first version of your product won’t be perfect—and it shouldn’t be. Launch quickly, even if it’s a minimum viable product (MVP). The goal is to put something into the hands of your audience, gather feedback, and iterate. Remember, feedback is a gift. It’s the raw material that transforms a good idea into a great product.

Take Instagram, for example. Initially launched as Burbn, it was a location-based check-in app. But users weren’t drawn to its primary features; they loved the photo-sharing aspect. The founders pivoted, focusing on what users truly wanted, and the rest is history. Such success stories highlight the importance of adaptability and responsiveness.

Passion Meets Demand

Passion is important, but it’s not enough. You might be passionate about vintage typewriters, but if the world has moved on, your niche product might only appeal to a handful of enthusiasts. The sweet spot lies where your passion intersects with demand. This intersection is where sustainable, impactful businesses are born. To find it, ask yourself: What excites me? What do people consistently ask for? Where do these answers overlap?

Building for a Niche

Niche products often excel because they address highly specific needs overlooked by mass-market solutions. But serving a niche doesn’t mean limiting growth—it means creating a devoted, loyal following. Consider Basecamp, a project management tool that carved out a niche by focusing on simplicity over feature bloat. Its creators knew that not everyone would want their product, but those who did would love it. Building for a niche allows you to refine your offering and establish a deep connection with your users, fostering trust and long-term loyalty.

Solving Real Problems: The Ultimate Goal

In the end, creating something people want is about making their lives easier, better, or more enjoyable. It’s about solving real problems and delivering tangible value. Whether it’s through innovative technology, impeccable design, or a simple solution to a common frustration, your product’s success hinges on its ability to resonate deeply.

So, start by asking the right questions, listening intently, and embracing the messy but rewarding process of iteration. Build for real people, solve real problems, and your creation won’t just be wanted—it’ll be cherished, recommended, and remembered.

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