Measurable Value of High Quality From Obsessive CX + EX + UX.

We're living in a time wherein phony metric and product theater is perpetuating lies and mistrust from the public. In many cases, businesses are doing harm and even responsible for death, at scale because of their obsession with shaving off seconds on a production line, sourcing cheaper, more defective materials and focusing on pennies while ignoring dollars. We are being manipulated to think that bad design as profitable, is an acceptable model of business. The people doing this are devoid of character and personal responsibility. And they cherry-pick important innovators words to manipulate business into thinking what they're doing is smart business. It's a sad state of our current zeitgeist of business when it needs constant reminding that design is not just incremental surface design but, how the business works.

Customer First (CX) and Employee First (EX) and User Experience (UX) and obsessive Design Ops and Service Design are the most critical business differentiators, and the most profitable methodology regarding business consciousness and longitudinal brand value. Fostering this conscious mindset equates to, and facilitates strong total experience outcomes.

All businesses make mistakes. Most business' goal are growth and profit. But many are scaling without the foundational model of pursuing quality. Companies who are well-known for their design-centric, customer-first approaches and are highly regarded for both customer and employee satisfaction win in the hearts and minds of consumers and it's no surprise they treat their employees well too. This is the established fact or CX + EX equates to strong business value. The secret to the majority of these companies is either the CEO or COOs are experience, customer, quality and employee centric.

Here are a few examples:

Apple

苹果 is famous for its sleek, user-friendly product designs and seamless integration across devices. Design is at the core of their product development, and the company has built a strong brand around innovation and aesthetics. Apple consistently ranks highly in customer satisfaction, particularly for its products like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. The brand's loyal customer base often praises the intuitive user experience. Apple is also known for providing a positive work environment, offering competitive benefits, and fostering innovation among employees. While high expectations and pressure are reported, many employees appreciate the creative freedom and impact of their work.

Tesla

Tesla ’s commitment to innovative design is evident in its electric vehicles, which feature cutting-edge technology, minimalist interiors, and advanced autonomous driving capabilities. Tesla customers are generally enthusiastic about their vehicles, particularly for their performance, design, and the company’s commitment to sustainability. Tesla has strong brand loyalty, despite some challenges with service and delivery.

Tesla offers opportunities to work on groundbreaking technologies, and many employees are passionate about the company’s mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. However, employee satisfaction can vary depending on role and location, with some reports of high work intensity.

Patagonia

Patagonia designs high-quality outdoor clothing and gear with a focus on sustainability, functionality, and ethical production. The brand is committed to environmental activism, which is reflected in its product design and company policies. Patagonia enjoys high customer satisfaction, particularly from consumers who value sustainability and ethical practices. The company’s dedication to quality and environmental responsibility resonates strongly with its customer base.

Patagonia is known for its employee-friendly policies, such as flexible working hours, a focus on work-life balance, and strong corporate social responsibility. Employees often share the company’s environmental values, contributing to high levels of job satisfaction.

NVIDIA

英伟达 is a leader in visual computing and artificial intelligence, with a strong focus on innovation in graphics processing units (GPUs) and AI technologies. Their design-centric approach extends to both hardware and software solutions. NVIDIA has a dedicated customer base, particularly among gamers, creative professionals, and AI developers. Their products are highly regarded for performance and cutting-edge technology.

NVIDIA consistently ranks as one of the best places to work, offering a dynamic and innovative work environment. Employees often cite the company’s strong leadership, growth opportunities, and positive culture.

Zappos

Zappos Family of Companies are known for its exceptional customer service and user-friendly online shopping experience, with a focus on customer happiness and easy returns. Zappos consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction due to its fast shipping, generous return policies, and excellent customer service.

Zappos has a unique company culture that prioritizes employee happiness, empowerment, and a fun work environment. The company’s commitment to its core values and employee well-being contributes to high job satisfaction.

Costco

Costco Wholesale co emphasizes a no-frills, warehouse-style shopping experience that prioritizes efficiency and value. Their store layouts are designed to maximize product visibility and streamline the shopping process, focusing on bulk sales and high-quality private label products (Kirkland Signature). Costco consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction due to its value proposition, high-quality products, competitive pricing, and generous return policy. Members appreciate the excellent selection and the overall shopping experience.

Costco is renowned for treating its employees well, offering competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for advancement. This commitment to employee welfare contributes to low turnover rates and high job satisfaction among staff.

HEB (H-E-B)

H-E-B focuses on creating a pleasant and convenient shopping environment with well-organized stores, fresh product offerings, and an emphasis on local and regional products. Their in-store design promotes ease of navigation and enhances the customer experience. HEB enjoys strong customer loyalty due to its focus on quality, affordability, and community-oriented approach. Customers appreciate the wide selection of products, including fresh produce and local specialties.

HEB is known for its supportive work culture, competitive pay, and benefits. The company invests in employee development and fosters a sense of community among its workforce, leading to high employee satisfaction and retention.

Discount Tire

Discount Tire prioritizes a user-friendly service experience, with clean, organized service centers and efficient processes for tire selection, installation, and maintenance. Their focus on operational excellence ensures a smooth and hassle-free customer journey.

Customers highly rate Discount Tire for its competitive pricing, wide selection of tire brands, and exceptional customer service. The company's transparent pricing and reliability contribute to strong customer loyalty.

Discount Tire fosters a positive work environment with opportunities for growth, comprehensive training, and a culture that values employee contributions. This results in high levels of employee engagement and satisfaction.

Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A Restaurants emphasizes a clean, welcoming restaurant environment with a focus on efficient service and quality food presentation. Their commitment to hospitality is reflected in their store layouts and service protocols. Chick-fil-A is renowned for its exceptional customer service, consistently ranking high in customer satisfaction surveys. Customers appreciate the friendly staff, high-quality food, and efficient service, often citing the company’s courteous culture.

Chick-fil-A is known for its supportive and respectful work culture, providing employees with training, development opportunities, and a positive work environment. The company’s focus on employee well-being contributes to high job satisfaction and loyalty.

Miro

Miro is a highly design-centric leader in visual collaboration tools, with a user-friendly and flexible platform designed to enhance teamwork and creativity. Aptly known as the Innovation Workspace, its design prioritizes ease of use, customization, and seamless integration with other tools, making it a favorite for teams across various industries. Miro has high customer satisfaction, driven by its powerful features, adaptability, and ability to support diverse collaborative needs. The platform’s continuous innovation and responsiveness to user feedback help maintain strong customer loyalty.

Miro fosters a positive and innovative work culture, with a strong focus on collaboration, diversity, and employee growth. The company’s commitment to empowering teams both internally and externally contributes to high levels of employee engagement and satisfaction.

Google (Alphabet Inc.)

谷歌 places a strong emphasis on user-centric design across its products and services, including search, Android, and various cloud-based solutions. Their design philosophy focuses on simplicity, functionality, and innovation. Google maintains high customer satisfaction through its reliable and widely used products, continuous innovation, and commitment to improving user experience. Services like Google Search, Gmail, and Google Maps are integral to daily life for millions.

Google is frequently listed as one of the best places to work, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth. Employees value the company’s emphasis on creativity, collaboration, and work-life balance.

Netflix

Netflix focuses on creating a seamless and intuitive user experience across its platform, emphasizing personalized content recommendations, easy navigation, and high-quality streaming. Netflix enjoys high customer satisfaction due to its vast content library, original programming, and user-friendly interface. The platform’s ability to cater to diverse tastes and preferences keeps subscribers engaged and loyal.

Netflix fosters a culture of freedom and responsibility, encouraging innovation and autonomy among its employees. The company offers competitive compensation, a flexible work environment, and values diversity, contributing to high employee satisfaction.

Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe's creates a unique shopping experience with a distinct store layout, creative product packaging, and a focus on specialty and private label items. Their stores are designed to be inviting and fun, enhancing the overall customer experience. Customers love Trader Joe’s for its unique product offerings, affordable prices, and friendly staff. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation in product selection fosters strong customer loyalty.

Trader Joe’s is praised for its supportive work environment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement. Employees often highlight the company’s positive culture and the ability to build strong relationships with both coworkers and customers.

Nike

耐克 is synonymous with innovative and stylish athletic wear and footwear. The company invests heavily in design and technology to create high-performance products that appeal to athletes and fashion-conscious consumers alike. Nike consistently receives high customer satisfaction scores for its quality products, brand reputation, and engaging marketing campaigns. The company’s focus on innovation and trendsetting keeps it at the forefront of the athletic apparel market.

Nike offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment, with opportunities for professional growth and development. Employees appreciate the company’s commitment to diversity, sustainability, and fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration.

Adobe

Adobe be is a leader in creative software, focusing on tools that empower designers, artists, and professionals to create high-quality digital content. Their products, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro, are renowned for their design and functionality. Adobe enjoys high customer satisfaction due to its comprehensive suite of creative tools, regular updates, and strong customer support. The company’s commitment to innovation and user feedback ensures that its products meet the evolving needs of its users.

Adobe is frequently recognized as a top employer, offering a supportive and innovative work environment, competitive salaries, and extensive benefits. The company values creativity, diversity, and employee well-being, leading to high levels of job satisfaction.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines focuses on providing a straightforward and enjoyable flying experience, emphasizing friendly service, efficient operations, and a no-frills approach that keeps costs low without compromising customer satisfaction. Southwest consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction for its reliable service, affordable pricing, and exceptional customer care. The airline’s policies, such as free checked bags and flexible ticketing, are highly appreciated by travelers.

Southwest is known for its strong company culture that values employees, fosters teamwork, and encourages a fun work environment. The airline offers competitive benefits, opportunities for advancement, and a supportive atmosphere, resulting in high employee satisfaction and loyalty.

Spotify

Spotify focuses on creating a seamless and personalized music streaming experience, with intuitive interfaces, sophisticated recommendation algorithms, and a user-friendly design across all platforms. Spotify enjoys high customer satisfaction due to its vast music library, personalized playlists, and ease of use. Features like Discover Weekly and curated playlists enhance the user experience and keep subscribers engaged.

Spotify offers a vibrant and inclusive work culture, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth. The company emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and work-life balance, contributing to high levels of employee satisfaction.

IKEA

宜家 is renowned for its modern, functional, and affordable furniture designs. The company focuses on creating products that are both stylish and practical, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovative solutions for home living. Customers appreciate IKEA for its wide range of products, affordability, and the ability to personalize their living spaces. The in-store experience, including the showroom and warehouse layout, enhances the shopping journey.

IKEA is praised for its inclusive and supportive work environment, opportunities for career development, and commitment to sustainability. Employees value the company’s strong culture and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects, leading to high job satisfaction.

Salesforce

Salesforce is a leader in cloud-based customer relationship management (CRM) software, with a strong emphasis on user-centric design and continuous innovation. Salesforce has a loyal customer base due to its comprehensive CRM solutions, user-friendly interface, and commitment to customer success. Salesforce is known for its positive work culture, commitment to equality, and emphasis on employee well-being. The company frequently appears on lists of best places to work.

These companies exemplify how prioritizing design, customer experience, and employee well-being can lead to outstanding performance, strong brand loyalty, and a positive reputation both among customers and employees. By maintaining a balanced focus on these areas, they continue to thrive in their respective industries.

Airbnb

Airbnb is a pioneer in the sharing economy and has revolutionized the way people travel and find accommodations. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, with a sleek interface that makes it easy for hosts to list their properties and for guests to find unique accommodations worldwide. Airbnb's focus on design extends to its branding, website, and mobile app, all of which emphasize simplicity, personalization, and a sense of community.

Airbnb enjoys high customer satisfaction, particularly for the unique and diverse range of lodging options it offers. The ability to stay in local homes and experience destinations from a more personal perspective is a significant draw for users. The platform's robust review system and customer support further enhance trust and satisfaction. Despite some regulatory challenges in various markets, Airbnb maintains a loyal customer base that appreciates its innovation in travel and hospitality.

Airbnb is known for its positive work culture, which emphasizes creativity, innovation, and a strong sense of community among employees. The company values diversity and inclusion, and it provides a work environment that encourages growth and collaboration. Employees often cite the company’s mission to create a world where anyone can belong anywhere as a motivating factor, contributing to high levels of job satisfaction.

Hyundai

Hyundai has become increasingly design-centric, especially in recent years. The company has invested heavily in developing a strong design identity across its vehicle lineup, which is reflected in its "Sensuous Sportiness" design philosophy. This approach combines sleek, dynamic lines with a focus on proportion, architecture, styling, and technology, resulting in visually appealing cars that stand out in the market.

Hyundai consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction, particularly for its value for money, reliability, and comprehensive warranty programs. The company offers one of the best warranties in the industry, often cited as a significant factor in customer loyalty. Hyundai vehicles are known for their affordability, fuel efficiency, and advanced features, which resonate well with a broad range of consumers.

Hyundai is known for fostering a positive work environment, particularly in its manufacturing and R&D divisions. The company values continuous improvement and innovation, providing employees with opportunities for growth and development. Hyundai's commitment to sustainability, especially through its focus on electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, has also created a sense of purpose among employees who are passionate about advancing green technology.

Dyson

Dyson is synonymous with innovative, high-performance products that combine cutting-edge technology with sleek, functional design. The company’s product range, including vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, hair dryers, and hand dryers, is known for its focus on solving everyday problems with elegant engineering solutions. Dyson’s design philosophy revolves around creating products that are not only effective but also aesthetically pleasing and easy to use.

Dyson products typically receive high customer satisfaction ratings due to their reliability, innovative features, and stylish design. Customers appreciate the brand’s commitment to quality and its focus on continuous improvement, often seeing Dyson products as worth the premium price. The company’s strong warranty and customer support services also contribute to its high satisfaction scores.

Dyson is recognized for its dynamic and innovative work environment, where engineers and designers are encouraged to push the boundaries of technology and creativity. The company invests heavily in research and development, providing employees with the tools and resources they need to innovate. Dyson’s culture emphasizes problem-solving, collaboration, and a passion for excellence, which leads to high job satisfaction among its employees.

Mark Cuban CostPlus Drugs

Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company, PBC is designed around a simple, transparent, and consumer-friendly business model aimed at reducing the cost of prescription medications. The company focuses on providing medications at a fraction of the typical price by eliminating middlemen and offering drugs at a fixed markup (usually 15%) above cost. The website is designed to be easy to navigate, with a focus on transparency—prices are clearly listed, and there are no hidden fees or complex insurance negotiations.

CostPlus Drugs has quickly garnered high customer satisfaction due to its commitment to affordability and transparency. Customers appreciate the significant cost savings on medications, which can be life-changing for those with chronic conditions or without insurance coverage. The company's transparent pricing model and user-friendly platform enhance trust and customer loyalty. Reviews often highlight the ease of purchasing medications and the relief of finding essential drugs at prices they can afford.

While specific data on employee satisfaction at Mark Cuban CostPlus Drugs is still emerging, the company’s mission-driven approach and innovative model likely contribute to a positive work environment. Employees at mission-driven companies like this often report high levels of job satisfaction due to the meaningful impact of their work on customers' lives. The company's focus on innovation, transparency, and customer advocacy likely fosters a strong internal culture where employees feel valued and motivated.

Arizona Iced Tea

AriZona Beverage Co. is widely recognized for its bold, colorful, and artistic packaging. The company has made design a central aspect of its brand identity, with its iconic 23-ounce tall cans featuring vibrant and often whimsical artwork that stands out on store shelves. The design reflects a fun, laid-back vibe that resonates with a wide audience, particularly younger consumers. Despite its premium appearance, Arizona Iced Tea is known for maintaining an affordable price point, which has been a key factor in its widespread appeal.

Arizona Iced Tea enjoys strong customer loyalty, largely due to its combination of quality, flavor variety, and affordability. The brand has maintained a consistent price of 99 cents for its large cans, which has helped it build a reputation for offering great value. Customers appreciate the wide range of flavors, the distinctive packaging, and the brand's commitment to keeping prices low. Arizona’s dedication to quality ingredients and taste has helped it sustain high levels of customer satisfaction over the years.

Information about employee satisfaction at Arizona Iced Tea is less prominent than for some other companies, as it is privately owned and tends to maintain a lower profile in terms of corporate culture. However, the company's success and longevity suggest a stable work environment. Arizona Beverages, the parent company, is known for being well controlled by its founders, which may create a unique and close-knit workplace culture. While there aren’t many public reviews or rankings available, the company’s consistent market presence indicates a functional operational model that likely supports a dedicated workforce.

These companies exemplify how a focus on design, customer experience, and employee well-being can lead to outstanding employee performance, strong UX and consumer, business and employee brand loyalty. Al of that equates to steadfast longitudinal value in the marketplace. And that solidifies the brands as top-of-mind in their categories by maintaining a foothold in the hearts of consumers.

~Fin