The value propositions within the Business Model Canvas (BMC) framework represent the unique value we aim to deliver through the products and services we offer. These propositions are crucial as they define the value we intend to convey to our customers, specifically targeted at the chosen customer segments. This focus is what will drive customers to choose us over our competitors. Let’s delve deeper into the BMC Value Propositions, which is one of the critical blocks of the Business Model Canvas.

Key Elements of BMC Value Propositions

The core of value propositions lies in solving problems, satisfying customer needs, and adding value (value-added). These propositions can range from offering innovative, new, or disruptive products and services to enhancing existing market offerings with additional features or characteristics. *Note: Disruptive refers to innovations or technologies that can disrupt the current business environment. For example, the emergence of Grab & Uber disrupted the income streams of traditional taxi drivers and operators. Value propositions may be created through both quantitative aspects (such as pricing and shorter service times) and qualitative aspects (such as design and user experience).

Elements of Value Propositions

Let’s explore the elements that can be used to build value propositions within your products and services:

1) Newness

This element refers to products and services that are new to the market. A prime example can be seen in the smartphone industry, where many companies launch new products annually.

2) Performance

Enhancing the performance of products and services can also serve as a value proposition. For instance, Intel continually releases more powerful CPUs than their previous models. Similarly, new smartphones often use performance improvements as a value proposition, such as the latest CPUs, increased memory, and larger storage capacities.

3) Customization

Customization involves tailoring products or services to meet the specific needs of individual customers or distinct customer segments. For example, Dell allows customers to modify the specifications of their laptops, enabling them to add more RAM or increase storage capacity based on their preferences.

4) Getting the Job Done

This type of value proposition is often associated with outsourcing. In the aviation industry, for instance, aircraft using Rolls-Royce engines rely entirely on the company to supply and maintain the engines.

5) Design

Aesthetic appeal plays a crucial role in value propositions. Products with standout designs are more likely to succeed in the market. This is evident in industries such as fashion, smartphones, and automobiles.

6) Brand/Status

The brand itself often becomes a deciding factor for customers when selecting products or services. Names like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei instantly bring to mind their associated products. Wearing a Rolex watch, for instance, immediately signals the wearer’s wealth and status.

7) Price

Offering lower-priced products and services with similar value is a strategy to attract price-sensitive customer segments. The implication for businesses is that all offerings must align with this low-price strategy. A case in point is AirAsia’s “now everyone can fly” campaign, where additional services like luggage, food, and beverages are sold separately.

8) Cost Reduction

Helping customers reduce costs can also serve as a value proposition. For example, suppliers might offer affordable pricing (as mentioned in point 7 above) to help businesses lower their expenses. Another example is the growing number of web applications offering subscription-based accounting systems, eliminating the need for hardware, software, or installation services. Cloud computing services also leverage this value proposition by removing the need for customers to purchase depreciating hardware.

9) Risk Reduction

Value propositions focused on reducing risk are often tied to warranties. For instance, electronic devices usually come with a one-year warranty. Distributors often offer customers extended warranties for an additional fee.

10) Accessibility

Making products and services easily accessible provides a compelling value proposition. For example, carpet or fabric sellers who bring their products directly to rural areas create immediate buying opportunities by eliminating the need for customers to travel to urban centers. Similarly, food delivery services make it convenient for customers to order meals by phone or online, as seen with Pizza Hut or Domino’s.

11) Convenience/Usability

Products and services that offer convenience to users present an attractive value proposition. For instance, Apple introduced the iPod and iTunes to simplify the process of finding, purchasing, downloading, and listening to music. As a result, Apple now dominates the digital music industry through this technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, value propositions should be designed to answer the following questions:

• What value do we aim to deliver to our customers?
• Which customer problems are we helping to solve?
• What needs are we fulfilling?
• What products and services do we intend to offer to each customer segment?

Stay tuned as we explore the next building block of the BMC: Channels.