Roles before counts
A range count says how many items exist. It does not explain the choices they create. Two products can serve distinct needs or repeat the same compromise under different packaging. Define the everyday option, the meaningful alternative and the specialist need before treating assortment size as an achievement.
Make a meaningful difference readable
An alternative earns its place when the customer can understand why to choose it. That may be size, durability, compatibility, material, care or the conditions of use. A higher price is not itself a role. Nor is a different colour necessarily a different mission. The important difference should be visible at the point of comparison.
Include the cost of complexity
Every addition brings records, shelf space, replenishment, handling and the chance of an exception. This does not mean a narrow range is always better. It means the benefit of choice should be examined alongside the work needed to keep the choice dependable. A slow-selling item can be essential to a specific mission; a popular duplication can still obscure the range.
Removal needs the same care as addition
Deleting an item can remove an unnecessary overlap or strand a customer need. Before changing the range, identify the substitute and check whether it preserves the relevant specification. Customer effort, product support and remaining stock belong in that decision. A tidy spreadsheet is not proof of a better assortment.