needs-stack

Guide structured conversations to map customer goals, alternatives, and product purpose.

4|Updated Jun 3, 2026

Search Tags:#business strategy #competitive analysis #product positioning #needs stack #customer goals

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/asmartbear/asb-skills --skill needs-stack

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: needs-stack
Source: https://github.com/asmartbear/asb-skills/tree/main/.claude/skills/asb-needs-stack
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/asmartbear/asb-skills --skill needs-stack

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps users understand the full picture of their customers' needs by mapping out the 'Needs Stack', revealing how their product fits into a customer's goals and the competitive landscape.

Core Features & Use Cases

Builds Needs Stack: Guides users in identifying and articulating their customers' goals and how their product fits into the larger picture.
Identifies Alternatives: Reveals competitors that may not be directly in the same product category but are above or below in the needs stack.
Purpose and Promise: Helps to define the purpose of the product and what it promises to achieve for the customer.

Quick Start

Build your Needs Stack by starting with what your product does for the customer and then walk up and down the stack, identifying each level.

Frequently Asked Questions about needs-stack

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

What is a Needs Stack in product positioning?▼

A Needs Stack maps customer goals hierarchically to reveal how your product fits into the larger picture and competitive landscape. It identifies the purpose your product serves and what it promises to achieve for the customer.

How do I map out customer goals for competitive analysis?▼

Start with what your product does for the customer, then walk up and down the stack to identify each level of customer goals. This structured conversation reveals competitors that may not be in your direct product category.

How does Needs Stack competitive analysis identify indirect alternatives?▼

Needs Stack analysis reveals indirect alternatives by mapping competitors above or below your product in the customer goals hierarchy. This exposes alternatives outside your direct product category that compete for the same customer purpose.

Can I use this approach to define product purpose and promise?▼

Yes, mapping the Needs Stack helps define your product purpose and what it promises to achieve for the customer. You engage in a structured conversation about customer needs to articulate this value proposition clearly.

What is the best way to analyze competitive alternatives outside my product category?▼

Mapping the Needs Stack is the best way to analyze alternatives outside your category, as it positions competitors relative to customer goals rather than product features. This reveals competitive advantages across the entire customer journey.

Do I need existing customer research to start mapping the Needs Stack?▼

No prior research is required, but you must engage in a structured conversation about your product and customer needs. The process guides you in identifying and articulating customer goals step by step.