Resolution

The second important factor to consider is called Resolution , which refers to how well the product works, functions, or  does what it is supposed to do.  Like the resolution of a musical chord,  a creative product leaves the user satisfied.  A product that functions well, that people can understand how to use, that is logical, and that has usefulness and value, is considered to be high in Resolution. Erwin Frand  who had worked in product development at 3M,  stated in his 1989 book, The Art of Product Development, that ‘we think creativity is at its best when it does not have to follow any set rules and is free to roam, but precisely the opposite is true . . . the successful new business developer is not the one who runs willy-nilly exploring a myriad of opportunities, but one who can find the solution to the problem’ (p. 120). We agree that an important issue in product innovation firms is  how to channel the creativity of high-ability team members into usable ideas that fit with a particular organizational strategy.

There are four facets or attributes perceived under the rubric of Resolution.  These are Logical, Useful, Valuable, and Understandable.  Products cannot have too much Resolution, although if that is all that they have, they may be perceived as a bit dull.

A product is considered to be Logical if it adheres to the “rules of the game” in its discipline.  People have unarticulated expectations of products.  They must not deviate too much from the expectation.

A Useful product has clear, practical applications. This facet also relates to users’ expectations since the usefulness of the product must be quickly discernible to the potential user or she will reject it, and look for another.

Products may be perceived to be Valuable in several senses.  They may be valued for their monetary worth, their psychological value, or the fact that they save time or make a job easier.  But, as with the other Resolution facets, their value must be perceived quickly by prospective users.

One of the most important aspects of product creativity is that products must be Understandable. This is important in all products, but especially so in technology products.  The user interface must be intuitive because most users revert to the owner’s manual only if all else fails.