Meaning of programmed Obsolescence (What is, Concept and Definition)

What is Programmed Obsolescence:

Programmed obsolescence, also known as planned obsolescence, means reducing the shelf life of a product to increase the consumption of more recent versions.

The determination of the useful life of a product or service is planned by the company or manufacturer with the aim of increasing demand, by encouraging consumers to buy new products with new technology and performance in their functions.Generally, the user wants to have the latest version of electronic devices such as Apple, Samsung, etc., to enjoy their new inventions in relation to the previous model.

For more information, see the Obsolete article.

According to the documentary buy, throw, buy , some of the most significant examples of programmed obsolescence are:

• The bulbs, in principle, had a duration of 1500 hours.After the years changed its duration at 2,500 hours.In 1924, a meeting was held in Geneva in which its attendees agreed to reduce the life of a bulb to 1000 hours.
• Nylon stockings, for a time were characterized by their difficulty tear, leading to reduced profits, so that their representatives decided to make nylon stockings with other materials that allow ease of breakage, forcing customers to the successive purchase of the product.
• Printers, After exceeding the number of impressions allowed, it will stop working, its repair being very expensive.

Programmed obsolescence can be seen as a positive marketing strategy, specifically for the company that markets the product , since it stimulates consumerism, inducing the purchase of modern and attractive models, leaving aside the alternative of repairing the old device for its high cost, so that the consumer feels obliged to replace his product with another new.

See the marketing article.

Scheduled obsolescence consists of disposing of old or non-working products to a garbage dump, achieving a visual, environmental and environmental impact.health of the inhabitants, since the devices are made with chemical products of high toxic levels and very harmful to health.That is why, the call to large companies for the use of electronic waste recycling and the elimination of obsolescence scheduled.

See also recycling and recycling cycle.

See environmental impact.

Bernard London was the one who promulgated the concept of programmed obsolescence and presented as an idea positive that the products have an expiration date to increase demand, and leading companies to produce merchandise to satisfy customers.

Programmed and perceived obsolescence

This is before scheduled obsolescence when the product stops responding and ob bind the individual to buy a new one, since its repair is more expensive than obtaining a new one.This phenomenon is due to the fact that the manufacturer studies or plans the useful life of the products.For example: some printers have a chip to determine the number maximum copies that the individual wishes to print.

On the contrary, under the assumption of perceived obsolescence the product works but needs another more current in its style than in functionality.In this case, advertising plays a important role to persuade the customer that he needs the latest version of the product, since the previous one is outdated, old and lacking in style.For example: the advancement of electronic devices with touchscreen keys.