IKEA Effect
We like things more when we build them ourselves.
The research
Participants were assigned to one of two groups. Some assembled a plain black IKEA storage box; others were given the opportunity to inspect a fully assembled box. Both groups were given $5 and asked how much they were willing to pay for the box. Those who assembled their own box were willing to pay 63% more than those that just inspected the box.
Norton, M. I., et al. (2012). The IKEA effect: When labor leads to love
The value of a dollar is social, as it is created by society.
Pro tip
When a creation is destroyed, the IKEA effect collapses. It is crucial to show the progress throughout the journey of development to keep individuals and teams motivated.
Thought starters
Allow people to create parts of the offering themselves
Instil a feeling of ownership and pride in what people help build to serve themselves
Encourage people to share their ideas and work with others collaboratively for a common goal