Management Information System (MIS) Practice Exam

Manufacturers often apply the concept of planned obsolescence, meaning that ________.

1. The companies have already decided when to launch their next product.

2. The product is designed in such a way as to extend its life span.

3. The product is designed to last only for a certain life span.

4. The companies do not enter markets which have the risk of product obsolescence.

The correct answer is: The product is designed to last only for a certain life span.

Planned obsolescence is a strategy used by manufacturers where a product is intentionally designed to have a limited useful life. This means that the product is built in such a way that it will become outdated or non-functional after a specific period or amount of use, prompting consumers to seek replacements sooner than they might otherwise need to. By incorporating features that lead to wear and tear or limiting updates for software-based products, manufacturers can drive continuous sales and encourage consumers to buy new products more frequently. This approach can create a cycle where consumers are compelled to replace their products, contributing to ongoing revenue for the manufacturers. It also highlights the tension between consumer satisfaction and profit-making strategies, as customers may feel frustrated by the need to replace products that could have otherwise lasted longer. The other options present different strategies or perspectives that do not align with the concept of planned obsolescence. For example, designing a product to extend its lifespan is contrary to planned obsolescence, as it aims to maximize the duration of use rather than limit it. Similarly, deciding when to launch a next product involves market strategy rather than directly impacting the lifespan of existing products. Lastly, avoiding markets with the risk of obsolescence does not reflect the active decision-making involved in planned obsolescence