How has this product changed over time? Why might it be better for the environment? GCSE Revision Product Time line

A good example of market pull influencing product evolution, is seen in the development of the digital camera. Twenty years ago, there was a ‘market’ requirement for a camera without a film (saving on developing films), that could take endless photographs, that could be viewed almost immediately. The technology of the time did not lead to the manufacture of such a device. However, technology has a habit of catching up on market needs. Market pull eventually led to the development of digital cameras, once miniature digital storage, processing power and improved battery performance was available. Market pull ensured that photo editing software also developed, in parallel with the development of digital camera technology. Market Pull Product Evolution What is market pull?

Planned obsolescence is when a product is deliberately designed to have a specific life span. This is usually a shortened life span. The product is designed to last long enough to develop a customer’s lasting need. The product is also designed to convince the customer that the product is a quality product, even though it eventually needs replacing. In this way, when the product fails, the customer will want to buy another, up to date version. Planned Obsolescence Product Evolution A good example of this is a mobile phone. Mobile phones are often designed with only current technology in mind, despite the manufacturers knowledge of future technological developments. For instance, a mobile phone may have USB / connections / jack plugs, that fit current products, such as head phones and computers. This means that the phone is not future proof. The manufacturer may already be working on updated phones, that connect using different sizes of USB ports / connections.

GCSE Revision Task Task 4: Research and explain what recycling is. Task 5: Research and give three example products that can be recycled. Task 6: Research and show three examples of recycling symbols. Task 7: Research and explain product evolution. Task 8: Research and explain three ways a company could reduce its carbon footprint. Task 9: Research and show an example product that has changed over time. Task 1: Research and explain what carbon footprint is. Task 2: Research and explain what Product life cycle is. Task 3: Give an example product for product life cycle. Task 10: Research and explain what PET means and what it is used for. Research Task