Pacing, Planning and Product Management
My friend and colleague Anuska Nandy, and I were talking of preparing to run a half marathon. She is the more committed one having already signed up. She brought up an interesting analogy of how the age old and well-known marathon philosophy “Run slow to run fast”, is quite similar to a product lifecycle. Run slow to run fast means you should focus on consistent easy paced runs in order to improve your actual speed, very much like how as Product Managers we run multiple A/B tests and launch iterations of the product in order to make incremental improvements, leading to a final robust product or feature.
If you think further the entire exercise of training for a marathon, is very similar to a product life cycle.
- Training plan — Product roadmap: A structured training plan is essential to prepare for a marathon especially if you are a beginner. It outlines when and how long to run, when to rest, and how to progressively increase mileage.
A product roadmap serves the same purpose. It provides a strategic guide that outlines goals, timelines, and milestones. Just as a runner adapts their plan based on their progress and needs, a product manager should continuously review and adjust the roadmap to reflect changing market dynamics and customer feedback.
- Run slow to run fast — Iterate and learn: This is a test you cannot cram for. The biggest mistake first-timers make is running too many miles, too fast, too soon. It is essential to learn to run slowly in order to eventually improve your speed.
Adopting an iterative approach with multiple A/B tests or MVPs (Minimum Viable Products) allows to gather data, learn from real user feedback, and make incremental improvements. This approach prevents the risk of investing too much into a big launch that might fail.
- Build endurance with long runs- Develop robust features: Long runs are crucial for building the endurance needed to complete a marathon. They teach the body to efficiently use energy and build mental resilience. It also acts a weekly checkpoint, to test your stamina.
We often focus only on the quick wins or lowest hanging fruits. Many times, it is essential to focus on developing core features that provide real value and robustness which builds the product’s endurance. These foundational elements ensure that your product can withstand market demands and scale effectively.
- Fuel well — Gather and use data effectively: Proper nutrition before, during, and after runs is vital for performance and recovery. Runners need the right balance of carbs, proteins, and hydration.
Data is the fuel for your product decisions. Collecting, analyzing, and acting on data from user behavior, market trends, and performance metrics is essential. Just as athletes need balanced nutrition, product teams need the right data insights to make informed decisions.
- Listen to your body — Listen to your users: You might have a perfect training plan, but it is necessary to listen to your body to prevent injuries and adjust your plan or rest as necessary.
It is crucial to keep your ears to the ground and listen to user feedback. Whether through direct user feedback, support tickets, or usage analytics, understanding and addressing concerns early can prevent bigger issues down the line.
- Invest in a good pair of running shoes — Use the Right Tools: High-quality running shoes are essential for comfort and performance. They prevent injuries and improve efficiency. It is necessary to keep track of your shoes and replace it when required.
For product managers, the right tech stack and tools are equally important. Utilize the best tools for user research, data analysis, and project management. They enhance your team’s productivity and help you avoid pitfalls that can derail your progress.
- Cross train for variety- Diversify skill pool: Even the most dedicated runners, need to mix it up a little. Cross-training, such as swimming or cycling, complements running by building strength and preventing burnout.
It’s essential to have a diverse skill pool and also a diverse team. Develop skills in design, marketing, and data analysis. This cross-training equips you to tackle any challenge that arises throughout the product lifecycle.
The journey to launching a successful product is a marathon, not a sprint. Both in marathons and in product management, persistence, and adaptability are your greatest allies. Embrace the long road, and enjoy the journey to the finish line!
