Wes Kao · 6 min read · Growth
Turn bugs into features
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The essay argues that when you can’t change a product in time for a launch, you can turn perceived bugs into features by reframing them as strengths. This frame shift can boost perceived value, save time, and illustrate how flaws can become selling points, as shown through real-world examples.
Key Takeaways
- When you can't alter the product before a launch, reframe perceived defects as features to better align with customer needs.
- Turning bugs into features is a low-cost, high-benefit framing technique that can elevate a product's perceived value.
- Use storytelling and positioning with real examples (e.g., Avis, ugly fruit, Simplehuman) to demonstrate how flaws can become selling points.
- Approach framing intentionally and tailor messages to different customer segments or use cases.
- This tactic helps marketers leverage existing assets and save time while differentiating the product.
Excerpt
👋 Hey, it’s Wes. Welcome to my newsletter on managing up, leading teams, and standing out as a high performer. To level up faster, join my course on Executive Communication & Influence . → UPDATE: The Sept and Nov cohorts are the last cohorts of the year. I originally published a version of this essay in May 2020. Enjoy. Read time : 4 minutes In an ideal situation, marketing and product teams talk to each other. What gets built is something people want because marketing is built into the DNA of the product. But in reality, marketers are put in…