Product vs. Service-Based Companies: A UX Designer’s Perspective

As a UX designer with experience in both product-based and service-based companies, I've had the opportunity to witness firsthand how these two work environments differ. My journey at Oracle, a product-based company, and Infosys, a service-based company, has given me valuable insights into the contrasting work cultures, responsibilities, and growth opportunities in each.

Understanding Product-Based vs. Service-Based Companies

Product-Based Companies

Product-based companies focus on building and selling their own products. They invest heavily in research and development, continuously iterating and improving their offerings based on user needs and market trends.

• Examples: Google, Microsoft, Oracle, Adobe

• Revenue Model: Generated through product sales, subscriptions, or licensing

• Work Culture: Long-term vision with stable projects and iterative improvements

Service-Based Companies

Service-based companies provide solutions and services to external clients. They work on multiple projects for various clients, adapting to their specific requirements and delivering tailored solutions.

• Examples: Infosys, TCS, Accenture, Wipro

• Revenue Model: Generated through client contracts, consulting, and project delivery

• Work Culture: Fast-paced, with frequent project shifts and client-driven requirements

My Experience at Oracle (Product-Based)

I worked at Oracle in the DBaaS (Database as a Service) team for six years, and life there was a blend of stability and innovation. Here’s what stood out:

• Remote Work & Flexibility: Since my team was spread across different countries, I worked completely remotely, which offered immense flexibility and work-life balance.

• Steady Growth Pace: We were growing at our own pace, focusing on feature enhancements and optimizations rather than rushing deliveries.

• Job Security & Comfort: While salary hikes were rare, the sense of security and comfort was unparalleled.

• Individual Contribution with Collaboration: Each team member worked on different add-ons and new features for the database console, but we had regular brainstorming and review sessions.

• Supportive Team & Friendly Managers: My teammates were incredibly supportive, and our project managers simplified requirements, making our tasks smoother.

• Engaging Virtual Fun: We had online board game sessions over Zoom and Monday morning meet-ups to share weekend stories, pictures, and videos, fostering a strong bond within the team.

My Experience at Infosys (Service-Based)

Shifting to Infosys eight months ago has been an entirely different experience, primarily because of its service-oriented culture. I have worked on a single project—the American multinational retail corporation Pharmaceutical Database Management web app—leading a team of six Gen-Z designers. Here’s what I’ve observed:

• In-House Collaboration: Unlike Oracle, where we worked individually, Infosys has a culture of larger in-house collaboration with multiple teams participating actively.

• Office Attendance & Designer Community: We go to the office twice a week, which allows us to connect with other designers and participate in company events.

• Continuous Learning & Market Relevance: To work on new projects, we need to qualify through internal interviews, ensuring we stay updated with market trends and relevant skills.

• Client-Facing Interactions: We frequently meet clients in person, and these engagements often include fancy lunches/dinners when they visit, making collaboration more personal and engaging.

• Casual & Fun Moments: Unlike the remote fun sessions at Oracle, here we have frequent in-person tea breaks, lunches, and outings, making it a lively and socially engaging workspace.

Which One is Better?

It depends on what you seek in a workplace:

• If you prefer stability, remote work, and long-term product growth, a product-based company is ideal.

• If you thrive in a dynamic, collaborative, and learning-driven environment, a service-based company offers more challenges and growth opportunities.

For me, both experiences have been valuable in shaping my career. Oracle provided security, flexibility, and comfort, while Infosys is keeping me on my toes, pushing me to stay competitive and market-ready.

Would love to hear from fellow designers—what’s your preference? Product-based or service-based? Let’s discuss!