Tag: strategy

April 30, 2009   Posted by: Mike Merrill

Product management to fit?

I often hear clients say, “We’ve been told by management that we should only have a standard and premium model.” Then product teams are tasked to fit the line to that limitation, while no product analysis was done to support the decision.

While reduction in configurations is important, how it is achieved is just as important. Using a quantitative approach earlier in this decision-making cycle can help the management team make an informed decision. Maybe a reduction to two models is just too aggressive; adding one additional model might be the difference in having proper market coverage. Examination of customer buying trends and patterns should be the first indicator for product direction.  Determining product strategy based on market needs as opposed to retrofitting the product to an idea could lead to more effective product lines for both the manufacturer and consumer.