productcamp rtp 2010 - depends & should work - brett cooper

“Should Work” & “Depends”

Brett Coopernetcooper@yahoo.com

October 30, 2010

Why do you hear “Depends” and “Should Work”?

October 30, 2010

What are “Depends”?

October 30, 2010

Why do you hear “Depends” or “Should Work”

• Engineers believe it will work – so do you– Haven’t tested it

• Rick avoidance – work avoidance

• Wasn’t in the plan

• Revenue – moved product shipment up

• Made commitment to get revenue now– Deliver feature/requirement later

What do your clients want to hear?

• The product (or service) is proven in their industry

• Built to meet their needs – we listened

• The product will last for years

Why do you hear “Depends” or “Should Work”

• You, as the Product Manager, didn’t provide the right requirements?– Use cases – scenarios– Market changed– Client requirements changed– You missed the window– Other reasons?

How do you fix this?

How do you fix this?

How can I fix this?

Admit that you have an issue to solve• Partner with Engineering

– Become the “Library of Knowledge” – “Trusted Advisor”

– Start early and build trust

• Use Innovation Games– Product Box– Pruning the Tree

• Use Customer Councils– Have Engineering Present

How can I fix this?

How can I fix this?

Thank you to our sponsors:

Thank you!

October 30, 2010