The holiday cottage Iโm staying in is a good example of getting the small details right. Iโm not talking about the design or layout of the place, but rather the thoughtful consideration of what I might need when staying, and then carefully making them available in the ways I would expect. Dishwasher tablets, tick. Clotheshorse under the stairs, tick. Extra blankets, tick. Soap in the bathroom, tick. How great to not think about these everyday items on my holiday. Experiences can be made or broken by this kind of detail.
Functionality and the use of everyday things are also an important part of getting this right. Having a washing machine is good, but I must be able to put a wash on without reading the instructions. The buttons and wash cycle settings must be self-explanatory. Failing that, consider explaining how to use the washing machine on check-in, or provide some simplified instructions, laminated and stuck to the machine. Domestic appliances are not a holiday delight, nor do I enjoy reading the manufacturerโs instructions.
Catering for people โnot like meโ is also important, which the holiday cottage owner has demonstrated to an extent. Welcoming dogs is a good example. However, bedrooms are upstairs so accessibility is limited, and the lack of stair gates reduces the desirability for parents of toddlers. The owners may be aware of this, which is fine, but if not, perhaps a few more baby-safe measures would increase their bookings.
Small details count. Not always, and not in every situation. But when they do, getting them right can make a big difference. Crafting truly excellent software is no different.
Better Software UK specialises in software requirements for Legacy System Replacement ๐ฅ; particularly for remote, outsourced and offshore development teams working in financial services.