All Things Product with Teresa and Petra

Product vs. Project Operating Models

May 20, 2025
Can product and project models coexist? The discussion traces the evolution of software delivery and its current challenges. Insight is provided on when to use project models for compliance versus product models for ongoing tasks. Accessibility is explored within these frameworks, highlighting the need for nuanced approaches. The conversation emphasizes collaboration across departments and adopting a dual perspective for success. Finally, it covers the importance of feedback loops to determine when work is genuinely complete.
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INSIGHT

Product vs. Project Models Explained

  • Product operating models focus on delivering outcomes with durable teams working on evergreen challenges.
  • Project operating models focus on outputs with temporary teams and defined start and end dates.
INSIGHT

Historical Roots of Project Models

  • Early software development was project-based due to the nature of delivery like shipping on CDs.
  • This history shapes present reflexes toward project operating models, which are not inherently bad.
ADVICE

When To Use Each Model

  • Use project operating models for one-time, compliance-driven work like GDPR.
  • Use product models for evergreen challenges needing durable teams focused on outcomes.
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