Chapter 6

S Curves and the Product Life Cycle

Almost all products go through different stages of development, and those stages are reflected in their growth rates. These are shown in Figure 6.1. The important points are at the takeoff and as the market approaches saturation. These are called inflection points.

By Bob Orsillo via Shutterstock

In the early development stage, growth rates may be high but actual sales are still low. Buyer awareness is just beginning. A few blogs and Web articles describe the new technology. Innovators start to notice the new product. Distribution channels are just beginning to take interest.

Then the market takes ...

Get Sales and Market Forecasting for Entrepreneurs now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.