So many versions. Why?

摘要

For this Viewpoint I'm looking for your perspective. I can't figure out why companies make so many versions of things.rnA while ago I was looking for a countertop microwave oven and went to the GE Web site. GE makes 33 versions of countertop microwaves. Just countertop, not built-in. Why so many? OK, there are different colors. GE makes 12 versions of white countertop microwaves. And, yes they vary in volume from 1 to 2 cubic feet and in power from 800 to 1200 W - but still you could easily get away with three models instead of 12.