Understanding the 3 types of jobs to be done

The jobs-to-be-done (JTBD) framework is a widely adopted business theory that emphasizes understanding the different types of jobs customers aim to fulfill—functional, emotional, and social—to create more differentiated and successful products. The framework suggests that consumers make purchases to accomplish specific jobs rather than simply acquiring products, and it challenges traditional segmentation based on demographics by focusing instead on the varied jobs customers want to achieve. While product managers often concentrate on functional jobs, they tend to overlook the emotional and social dimensions that also drive purchasing decisions. By incorporating these aspects, companies can better tailor their offerings and communication strategies to meet the full spectrum of customer needs, thus gaining a competitive edge in the market. The article underscores the importance of engaging with customers to accurately identify their jobs-to-be-done and adapting product strategies to address these multifaceted requirements effectively.