Planned Obsolescence: Why Some Durable Goods Aren't So Durable (Enhanced DVD)

How and why major corporations are forced to plan for obsolescence is largely the result of continuous innovation. If technology is designed and engineered to fail in a relatively short period of time, it is because computer hardware companies are involved in recreating the wheel.

According to market research experts, obsolescence is required to meet demand, as new products are launched the product lifecycles of earlier releases terminate. What comes out of this market driven strategy, is competitive advantage in recycling; ensuring that end-of-life does not mean wastage. Regulatory mandate of technological recycling by governments is assurance that old products will be turned into new ones.

If competition in the technologies markets means constant update and reinvention of existing products, manufacturers are making substantial profits on programmed obsolescence. Hence, electronics and other personal and office technologies are not as durable, so that companies can capitalize on innovation and update to products.

The video looks at planned obsolescence as part of the brand strategy in the smartphone market. The inclusion of short-term lifecycles as part of smart device obsolescence as part of business strategy by companies marketing these new technologies, relies on the integration of batteries with a limited use value and shelf life.

Targeted for obsolescence at three years, the lower durability of  smart devices affords the potential of better customer churn for repurchase of new releases at time of recycle. An installment in the "Underhand Tactics: Investigating Corporate Culture series", this film offers insight into programmed obsolescence.

Planned Obsolescence: Why Some Durable Goods Aren't So Durable

• DVD
• ISBN 978-1-61753-960-2
• Run Time (56 Minutes)
• Copyright 2012
• Closed Captioned (CC)