About the Kano model template
Prioritizing product work is key to delivering value efficiently. The Kano model is a popular framework given its focus on understanding customer satisfaction.
The model categorizes features into three main groups: basic/must-have, performance, and delight. Basic/must-have features are essential functionalities that customers expect as a minimum requirement. Performance features are those that directly correlate with customer satisfaction. And delight features are unexpected but highly appreciated additions that can differentiate your product in the market.
Map features based on their Kano classification and then prioritize according to the impact each feature will have on customer needs. Translate these priorities into actionable tasks within Aha! Roadmaps — streamlining the process from prioritization to implementation seamlessly.
How to use the kano model template
Prioritize product features based on how they influence customer satisfaction.
Explore your options Compare the potential value of new features based on whether they are likely to satisfy or disappoint your customers. Add sticky notes to represent new functionality or import existing work items as cards directly from Aha! Roadmaps.
Capture customer sentiment Use emojis to convey how customers feel about each feature. Indicate whether each one is a delighter that generates excitement, a performance capability that directly impacts satisfaction, or a must-have requirement that customers expect by default.
Assess need vs. satisfaction Place your features on the Kano model. Delighter and must-have features typically have a stronger impact on customer satisfaction (positive or negative), while performance features follow a more linear path. Items in the center of the grid fall into the indifference zone.
Align on priorities Invite colleagues to weigh in. Move features around as you discuss how best to meet customer needs. Run a voting session to determine which ones to move ahead with and add them directly to your roadmap.
FAQs about the Kano model template
Why is a Kano model important?
The Kano model encourages product managers to think differently about product prioritization. Instead of ranking features by urgency or effort, this model encourages you to consider whether they meet basic user expectations, provide performance improvements, or create moments of delight. Use this framework to discover opportunities to differentiate your product and determine where to best focus the team's energy.
What are some Kano model best practices?
Before bringing items onto your whiteboard, clearly define the features you want to prioritize. Invite the broader product team to participate in prioritization discussions. Update your model to keep it accurate as customer preferences evolve. And remember to source new insights and feedback from surveys, interviews, and ideas portal entries.
Who is the Kano model template for?
Typically, product managers and UX designers use the Kano model to prioritize features. It is especially helpful for smaller teams with limited resources because it focuses your efforts on the most impactful work. Try this template when you are bringing a new product to market or moving items from the backlog to your roadmap.
Is this template free to use?
Yes. To use this Kano model template, sign up for a free 30-day trial of Aha! Whiteboards. (You can also try this template in Aha! Roadmaps if you need a complete product management solution.) Easily customize the template to suit your needs, then share it with as many people as you want (for free) to streamline collaboration.
