Transformer product

A type of Next Leader product that increases benefits for the user but offers, at least initially, fewer buyer benefits than the Standard Leader product.

Example 1:

AltiGen Communications' small business phone systems have given birth to an entirely new phone technology, based on computer servers rather than proprietary office switches, known as private branch exchanges. AltiGen's system costs about $450 per user, approximately 20% less than traditional phone systems. It can use cheap phones from any consumer retail store, rather than expensive proprietary phones costing hundreds of dollars. AltiGen also offers features such as one-button return calling and incoming call direction to up to four different numbers before the caller is dumped into voice mail.
(Year 1998-SIC 4812)

Explanation: Next Leader AltiGen uses new technology to add several Functions previously unavailable to its small business customers. This is a Transformer Next Leader Product.

Example 2:

Cyras' main product is the K2, an intra-city optical connection. It is a microwave-size box that lets telecommunications firms connect customers wanting high-speed internet service directly with fiber-optic networks. Standard boxes for fiber optics are big and bulky and cost more. The K2 combines many functions in one box and preserves precious space for telecommunications firms. The current function is performed by several larger boxes made by large companies, such as Nortel. The new single box also reduces technician training and equipment configuration time for the large telecommunication firms.
(Year 2000-SIC 3661)

Explanation: This Transformer Next Leader Product offers a number of Function benefits compared to the standard switchboxes.

Example 3:

Home Depot built radical "big box" stores. The typical new store has 108,000 square feet and contains every imaginable home product, under one roof.
(Year 1998-SIC 5211)

Explanation: Home Depot is a Transformer Next Leader Product. It offers the home improvement customer far more choices, at lower prices, than any other competing retailer.

Example 4:

One company has created a pair of adjustable glasses for use in lesser developed countries. A user can adjust the power of the lenses by twirling the adjusters. This injects fluid through a tiny hole in the frame. A fatter lens increases magnification for those who are nearsighted; a thinner lens reduces magnification for the farsighted. A pair could cost as little as $10. There is no need for a vision test, a visit to an optician or an expensive prescription.
(Year 1998)

Explanation: This Transformer Next Leader Product offers the new Function benefit of infinite adjustability.

Example 5:

Satellite TV offers a number of advantages over cable. Its digital signal provides a vastly improved picture and clear, CD-quality sound. It also has virtually unlimited capacity, with providers currently advertising up to 500 channels. That means you can get expanded basic service, with everything from A&E to ZDTV, for about $40 a month, and as many seasonal sports packages and movie channels as you're willing to pay for. Satellite TV often is cheaper on a month-to-month basis than cable. However, you must buy the dish and the black box that decodes the signals, at prices starting around $100 and going as high as $400. But the satellite companies, EchoStar and DirecTV, offset the cost by offering frequent promotions that rebate part or all of the equipment and installation charges when you agree to a year's subscription.
(NL 335 2000 4841)

Explanation: These Functional benefits enhance the user's experience with the product. However, it is less convenient to purchase because of the need to install a satellite dish in order to obtain the programs. Satellite TV is a Transformer Next Leader Product.