5 Spectacular Product Failures - And What You Can Learn from Them

Innovators can learn from product failures more than successes. Examples of failures to avoid include the Ford Edsel, which lost more than it earned; Colgate Kitchen Entrees, which did not position well with the brand; New Coke, which outrageously fixed something that was not broken; Premier Smokeless Cigarettes, which tasted terrible; and BIC Disposable Underwear, which was not meant to be thrown away. Successful innovation requires understanding the market, finding a niche, and delivering a product that meets customer needs.