Design an ads product for Lyft.

This question is asking you to think creatively and strategically about how to develop a hypothetical product that would serve Lyft's business goals and also add value to its user base. In any product design response, it's key to focus on understanding the users, exploring the problem space, and proposing a solution.

To navigate this question constructively, the following steps would be helpful:

1. Identify Lyft's business goal: Is it to attract more riders, drivers, or increase usage among existing users?
2. Understand the users: Who are Lyft’s primary user base – the riders or drivers, and what are their needs, habits, and challenges when using the app?
3. Determine the problem: What problems could an ads product solve for these users?
4. Brainstorm Solutions: Sketch out an ads product that could solve that problem.

If the goal is to increase usage among existing users, one could propose an ads product that incentivises frequent usage.

"For instance, the ads product could be a 'Ride & Reward' program which displays ads from various local businesses offering discounts or rewards that can be redeemed by frequent riders. The ads can be displayed when a user opens the app waiting for their ride or within the ride receipt once they have finished the trip.

This has dual benefits: 1) Local businesses get highlighted which can generate more local commerce, 2) Lyft’s users get relevant deals, incentivising them to choose Lyft over other ride share apps. Showing the ads post-ride also ensures the core user experience isn’t disrupted.

If the aim is to attract new drivers, Lyft could develop an 'Advertise with Us' program targeted at potential drivers.

"For example, the ads product could feature success stories and testimonials from existing drivers, their earnings potential, or promotional bonuses for new drivers signing up. It could be showcased on Lyft’s corporate website, social media channels or as display ads in search engines. These stories or ads could be personalised based on the drivers' geographical location, encouraging them to join the Lyft community.

The benefit of such an ads product is it can provide trusted and genuine information to potential drivers, helping them to overcome any reservations about signing up and make an informed decision to join Lyft."