Engineering Considerations and the "Working Backwards" Approach for Product Managers

Engineering Considerations and the "Working Backwards" Approach for Product Managers

Introduction:
As product managers, it is crucial to consider various engineering aspects when developing new initiatives. In this article, we will explore the importance of real-time requirements, data and model dependencies, data collection methods, and the "Working Backwards" approach used by Amazon. By understanding these engineering considerations and incorporating the "Working Backwards" method, product managers can enhance their decision-making process and create successful products.

Real-Time Requirements and Data Dependencies:
One of the key engineering considerations for product managers is the ability to calculate algorithm results in real-time. This factor determines whether the results can be pre-calculated or if they need to be calculated on the spot. Real-time requirements add complexity to the development process, as it necessitates efficient algorithms and infrastructure to handle immediate calculations.

Additionally, product managers must identify the models that are dependent on data and understand when re-running or re-training is necessary. With the continuous addition or modification of data, certain models may need updates to ensure accuracy. Defining acceptable Service Level Agreements (SLAs) is crucial to determine how quickly these updates should occur. By closely monitoring data and model dependencies, product managers can ensure the effectiveness and reliability of their products.

Data Collection Methods and Storage:
Another important engineering consideration is the method of data collection. Product managers must determine whether data is collected in batch or streamed on a continuous basis. Understanding the collection process helps in choosing the appropriate data collection method, whether it involves pushing or pulling data. Real-time requirements further complicate this aspect, as immediate data collection is essential for real-time calculations. Depending on the rate at which data is accumulated, product managers may need to design efficient pipelines and select suitable storage methods to handle the data effectively.

The "Working Backwards" Approach:
Amazon's "Working Backwards" approach offers product managers a powerful tool to develop successful initiatives. This method begins with the creation of an internal press release that announces a finished product. The press release focuses on the customer problem, highlighting the failure of existing solutions and how the new product will surpass them.

By working backwards, product managers are forced to put their ideas to the test. The process involves writing, refining, and reiterating the press release, which helps to determine if the idea is worth pursuing. This approach eliminates scope creep, the tendency to add unnecessary features or focus on minor details. Instead, it encourages product managers to concentrate on great ideas and ensures that the final product aligns with the needs of the target market.

Actionable Advice:

1. Prioritize Real-Time Capabilities: When developing a product, carefully assess whether real-time requirements are necessary. If so, invest in the infrastructure and algorithms that can handle immediate calculations. This will ensure that your product delivers timely and accurate results.

2. Stay Vigilant with Data and Model Dependencies: Regularly review the data and models that your product relies on. Identify which ones require updates based on data additions or modifications. Establish acceptable SLAs to ensure timely updates and maintain the effectiveness of your product.

3. Embrace the "Working Backwards" Approach: Start by writing an internal press release that focuses on the customer problem and how your product solves it. Continuously refine and iterate on the press release to determine the viability of your idea. This approach will help you prioritize great ideas and avoid scope creep.

Conclusion:
Engineering considerations play a crucial role in the success of product management. By understanding real-time requirements, data and model dependencies, and data collection methods, product managers can make informed decisions and create effective products. Additionally, incorporating the "Working Backwards" approach allows for thorough testing of ideas and ensures that only the best concepts are pursued. By following these actionable pieces of advice, product managers can enhance their decision-making process and ultimately deliver successful products.