The value of the Rubik’s cube

In my view, delivering value is about being meaningful. You can only excel as an entrepreneur if your product has a certain value for the customer, something that enhances the features of the product. The value of a product is >about this extra thing that makes the customers’ life easier, more agreeable or comfortable.

Take for example the Rubik’s Cube. A puzzle invented in the seventies by Erno Rubik. The value that this puzzle offers lies in the fact that it is not just a plastic children’s toy with bright colors. Instead it was designed for grown-ups and it is quite a challenge to solve it. Millions people around the globe use it as a time-killer; there are Rubik Cube’s tournaments and there is even a World Championship. Take a look at the video:

Addictive toy

The value isn’t in the product itself but in the challenge that it offers. Although the puzzle can be solved within reasonable time, the way to get there is fascinating and has several milestones, which makes it very addictive. So now you can discern the main value (the tough challenge in itself) and the sub-values:

• the way the puzzle can be used
• the amazing way the blocks can move in the cube
• how easy it is to monitor your progress by counting the same colored- surfaces you have reached
• the milestones you can reach: number of surfaces, corner stones in place etc.
• the addiction caused by the progress

So what are the hidden values in your product?

Have you ever thought of your product in terms of value? Just consider doing so. Forget the materials the product is made of, the machines that are needed to construct it. Think about other ways it could be used or other desires it could fulfill.