Product, Reconsidered — Mikal Lewis

Articles

  • A Viewpoint from Bold to Win SaaS products are strange beasts. You win buyers long before you earn users from a resulting deal. Buyers who buy and users who use are two different customers and…

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  • In a simpler time, my daughter asked me why the sky is blue. I gave the best answer I could, but she kept asking why. At the limits of my understanding I gave a close…

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  • N+1itis is a product approach focused on adding features, which often distracts teams from managing the existing product effectively. This article challenges that and asks teams to first develop a plan to win with less.

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  • “Conversation 27,” in project team is the detrimental repetitive and circular conversations that seem critical, but only momentum killing. These discussions often revolve around prioritizing features, timelines, or quality, stalling progress. Establishing a clear “commander’s…

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  • In the world of product development, trust deficits exist due to the inconsistent processes and lack of informed perspectives among product management teams. Unlike uninformed opinions, informed perspectives are rigorously developed and lead to trustworthy…

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  • Introduction to the “Index Card 1:1,” a daily 15-minute self-reflection exercise. The process involves recording feelings, celebrating a win from the previous day, and identifying the next action to take. Daily, it aids in self-awareness…

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  • Professional Product Managers are defined by their commitment and routines, not just their skills or behaviors. The Timeless Product Method outlines 15 conscious commitments that distinguish them. To become one, embrace these commitments as part…

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  • After achieving product/market fit, the timeless approach is to focus on product/customer win. This means competing to be the preferred product for valuable customer segments. Success is measured by higher satisfaction with this audience compared…

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  • Misalignment within teams leads to internal competition. Apple’s successful alignment is based on clear beliefs, expressed by Tim Cook. Companies’ beliefs shape their strategies, as seen with Amazon and Walmart. We have a template for…

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  • A great product manager taking the time is all that is required for great product work. Objection: Starting with product strategy sounds great, but I can’t do great product work—they won’t let me. Timeless viewpoint:…

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