Meaning: Steve Jobs' quote about the development of the NeXT computer reflects his philosophy on innovation and customer needs. The quote highlights the tension between giving customers what they think they want versus anticipating and creating products that they will want in the future. In this case, Jobs emphasizes the importance of creating products that customers will desire, even if they may not be able to articulate those desires at the present moment.

When Jobs made this statement, he was reflecting on the process of developing the NeXT computer, a high-end workstation computer designed for the education and business markets. Jobs founded NeXT Inc. in 1985 after leaving Apple, and the NeXT computer was intended to be a revolutionary product that would push the boundaries of technology and design. The three-year period mentioned in the quote likely refers to the extensive research, development, and refinement process that went into creating the NeXT computer.

By stating that if they had given customers what they said they wanted, they would have built a computer that satisfied their immediate desires but not necessarily their future needs, Jobs is asserting the importance of visionary product development. He believed in creating products that would not just meet current demands but also shape and influence those demands in the future. This approach aligns with Jobs' broader philosophy of challenging the status quo and leading customers to products they didn't even know they wanted.

Jobs' emphasis on building a computer that customers would want "now" suggests a focus on creating products that are ahead of their time, setting new standards and expectations rather than simply meeting existing ones. This forward-looking perspective is a hallmark of Jobs' approach to product development, as evidenced by his track record with products like the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, and iPad, all of which redefined their respective markets and influenced consumer behavior.

In the context of technology and innovation, Jobs' quote underscores the challenge of balancing customer feedback with a company's vision for the future. While customer input is valuable for understanding current needs and pain points, it may not always point the way to revolutionary or groundbreaking products. Jobs' approach suggests that true innovation often requires looking beyond immediate customer requests and anticipating future trends and desires.

This philosophy has implications for businesses across industries, not just in technology. It encourages companies to think beyond the present and consider how products and services can shape and influence customer preferences. By doing so, companies can position themselves as leaders rather than followers in their respective markets, setting new standards and driving customer demand in innovative directions.

In conclusion, Steve Jobs' quote about the development of the NeXT computer encapsulates his belief in visionary product development and the importance of creating products that anticipate and shape customer desires. By challenging the notion of giving customers what they say they want and instead focusing on building products they will want in the future, Jobs emphasizes the role of innovation and forward-thinking in product development. This perspective has implications for businesses seeking to differentiate themselves and lead their industries through innovative and disruptive offerings.