Why Adding a Simple Link Can Spark Complex Product Discussions

Requirement: I want to place a link at this position on the page.

This isn’t that simple? Just add an <a> tag in the HTML file.

Does the requester really know what they want?

Requesters often describe what they see combined with what they want, using their own logic, which may not reflect the true intent.

Different people describe requirements differently; the simple request to add a link may actually hide needs such as:

Track each click’s user.

Allow editing link text and URL.

Show different links for different regions.

…

Requirements are subjective and have limited direct reference value. We should discuss background and explore alternative solutions.

1. The request may not need any development

Many requests stem from under‑utilized existing resources and can be satisfied by configuration or existing components.

If the link just points to an activity page, configure it in the backend.

The link can be fixed to the user’s personal center using a ready‑made component.

Achieving the goal without writing code is the most elegant solution.

2. A better implementation

Requesters may lack awareness; we can suggest improvements.

Placing the link elsewhere can increase conversion and avoid annoyance.

The space may only accommodate 15 characters; longer text would wrap.

Advice should be tailored; if the requester’s product sense is higher than ours, we should be cautious about imposing suggestions.

3. Some requests cannot be fulfilled

Certain demands are impossible at the current stage, often due to reasons outside the requester’s knowledge.

Giving external control over link text may fail security review.

Heavy traffic to the page may overload the server without performance optimization.

When necessary, explain clearly and refuse if the request violates essential principles.

4. Find a high‑ROI balance point

Requesters often underestimate implementation cost; negotiation is essential.

Adding the link might take a month, but a button could be ready tomorrow.

Real‑time editability may need a week of work; a one‑hour delay can be acceptable.

Understanding the background reveals that some parts of the request are arbitrary decisions.

In the end, after considering everything, I chose to simply add an <a> tag in the HTML file, because the real demand was just to add a link.