The article discusses the phenomenon of "enshittification," where platforms and services degrade in quality over time as they prioritize short-term profits over user experience. It examines the implications of this trend for the economy and society, drawing on examples from various industries. The author argues that understanding this process is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by deteriorating services and maintaining a healthy digital ecosystem.

The article explores the concept of "enshittification," where digital products are intentionally degraded to increase profits, often at the expense of user experience. It discusses a case where a design leader resisted changes to a successful freemium product, arguing that while the changes would hurt free users, they were necessary for the product's survival and long-term sustainability. The author emphasizes the need for designers to balance user delight with business viability, suggesting that sometimes making a product less appealing to free users is a rational choice to ensure its future.

The article discusses the concept of "enshittification" in products and services, highlighting how quality often declines as companies prioritize profit over user experience. It explores the implications for consumers and the importance of maintaining value in offerings to prevent a downward spiral in product quality.