Engineering Culture by InfoQ
Product Mastery in Corporate Software: Insights from Kent McDonald
Sep 27, 2024
Kent McDonald, an experienced product manager and writer, shares his insights from nearly two decades in corporate software. He discusses the intricate challenges that product managers face in large organizations developing internal software. The importance of strategic decision-making and effective communication is emphasized. McDonald also delves into evolving product operating models and collaboration across diverse skill sets. Key takeaways from Agile 2024 highlight overlooked trends in product management, focusing on discovery and the need for better metrics in corporate environments.
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Quick takeaways
- Effective product management in large organizations necessitates a focus on understanding real needs, challenging the established norms of decision-makers.
- The establishment of effective metrics is vital for product management success, helping align organizational efforts and fostering a culture of accountability.
Deep dives
The Role of Product Management in Large Organizations
Product management in large organizations is distinct, particularly when software is built for internal use rather than for sale. These organizations often need to be convinced of the value of product management, as many decision-makers may lack technical expertise and base their requests on past experiences. A vital aspect of product management is ensuring that teams focus on building the right solutions that address actual needs, which requires understanding and distilling the underlying problems. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider whether developing software is necessary or if buying and customizing existing solutions may provide a more effective route.
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