Product Obsolescence
Obsolescence
Obsolescence is when a product becomes outdated, unwanted, or no longer functional before the end of its useful life — often by design.
Designers and companies may use obsolescence to drive repeat purchases, but this can have serious consequences for the environment, economy, and society.
Types of Obsolescence
Planned Obsolescence
Planned obsolescence
Planned obsolescence is when a product is intentionally designed to become outdated or less useful after a certain period. This is done to encourage repeat purchases, or to allow for new technologies or safety improvements in future versions.
Inkjet printers with chipped cartridges - Some printers are designed to reject third-party cartridges or stop functioning after a set number of prints, even if they’re still usable.
Social Obsolescence
Social Obsolesence
Social obsolescence happens when a product loses value or usefulness due to external social, economic, or cultural changes—not because the product itself is faulty. This can include shifts in trends, technology, or user expectations.
Apple iPhones (annual model releases)
- Consumers often upgrade to newer models for features or status, even when older phones work perfectly well.
- Peer pressure and marketing can make older devices seem undesirable.
Style Obsolescence
Style Obsolesence
Style obsolescence occurs when a product becomes undesirable due to changing fashions or trends. However, because fashion is cyclical, older styles can regain popularity—as seen with retro or vintage trends.
Fast fashion from brands like Zara or H&M - Clothing trends change rapidly, making last season’s styles feel outdated, even if the clothes are still in good condition.
Functional Obsolescence
Functional Obsolescence
Functional obsolescence occurs when a product wears out or breaks down over time and can no longer perform its original function. This can happen if replacement parts or essential services are no longer available, making the product unusable even if it's physically intact.
Technological Obsolescence
Technological Obsolesence
Technological obsolescence happens when newer technology replaces older technology, making the old version less useful or outdated. As a result, consumers switch to the more advanced, efficient option, and the older technology is no longer used in new products.
30-pin iPod docking stations
- When Apple switched to the Lightning connector, older docks and accessories became incompatible with new devices.
- Software updates no longer support older devices or apps.
Obsolescence and Responsibility
Obsolescence often leads to:
- Increased waste and environmental impact
- Unnecessary resource consumption
- Social inequalities (e.g. pressure to upgrade)
Obsolescence affects the Triple Bottom Line by:
- increasing waste and environmental harm (planet)
- placing financial and social pressure on users to upgrade (people)
- driving short-term sales at the cost of long-term sustainability (profit)
See Section C2.1.3 for a full breakdown of the TBL.
- It's a common misconception that all obsolescence is negative.
- In some cases, technological obsolescence drives innovation and improves quality of life.
- However, it's essential to balance these benefits with social and environmental considerations.
Ethical Considerations for Designers
- Transparency: Clearly communicate product lifespans and upgrade options to consumers.
- Sustainability: Design products with modular components or recyclable materials to reduce environmental impact.
- Innovation: Focus on creating durable, adaptable products that meet evolving user needs without contributing to unnecessary waste.
To what extent should designers prioritise profit over sustainability?
