By: Zoë Pearson
The
main issue with planned obsolescence is that it requires a relationship where
only one party benefits. Unfortunately, that party is corporations. Planned
obsolescence helps businesses maintain high revenue with low production costs.
Thus, consumers are continually buying expensive products that are designed to
either break down, or surprise, be discontinued. This is where an entertainment
company like Comcast comes in.
In
order to attract new buyers, Comcast offers the best rates in the industry with
monthly entertainment plans which include special channels and benefits. Only a
year later, the plan is discontinued and instead of simply resigning for a
similar package, one must sign on a new package with higher rates---4 to 5%
higher. You can either make the choice to try a new plan or quit altogether,
and of course people reapply. This built-in advertising tactic is extremely
successful and does nothing for the consumer but empty their pockets. The price
rises, yet there is no change or improvements with the products. I see a
problem here. Though this is not a traditional form of planned obsolescence, it
still fits the mold.
What
would you do to change the cycle?
Go
to the following references to learn more and create a plan against planned
obsolescence:
http://www.greenlivingtips.com/articles/Planned-obsolescence.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REN9Z8Ho0Hk
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