The Power of Outcome-Based Roadmaps and the Importance of Network Learning Skills

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Aug 22, 2023
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The Power of Outcome-Based Roadmaps and the Importance of Network Learning Skills
In the world of product development, roadmaps play a crucial role in guiding teams towards success. However, the traditional project-based roadmap approach has its limitations. David Cancel, CEO of Drift and former VP Product for Hubspot, once referred to roadmaps as a "no-win scenario." He argued that they either disappoint stakeholders by not delivering the expected results or create a sense of dishonesty when course corrections are made.
To address this challenge, an alternative approach called outcome-based roadmaps has gained traction. Unlike project-based roadmaps, which focus on specific projects and their timelines, outcome-based roadmaps center around the problems that need to be solved to achieve the desired results. Instead of promising specific deliverables, these roadmaps provide a steady light that guides teams towards success.
The key advantage of outcome-based roadmaps is that they allow for flexibility and adaptation. By focusing on the problems to be solved rather than specific projects, teams can adjust their strategies based on changing circumstances or new insights. This approach acknowledges the inherent uncertainty in product development and allows for a more iterative and responsive approach.
One of the challenges of traditional roadmaps is the expectation of delivering projects on a specific schedule. To address this, it is important to communicate clearly that roadmaps are not commitments but rather a way to understand how projects fit together and evolve. This "No Commitment" speech helps set realistic expectations and reduces the pressure to adhere strictly to a predetermined timeline.
When creating an outcome-based roadmap, it is crucial to articulate your product strategy first. Roadmaps are an expression of your product strategy, whether project-based or outcome-based. By doing the hard work up-front and clearly defining the problems to be solved and the metrics that will measure success, you provide a solid foundation for your roadmap.
In addition to product strategy, universities and colleges should also focus on teaching network learning skills. In today's network society, it is essential for graduates to have the ability to engage with professional communities and networks in their field. Unfortunately, this is often neglected in traditional education systems.
To address this gap, institutions should co-design frameworks that support students in connecting with external communities and networks. This should start from the first year of studies and involve a group of committed educators who are willing to change the system. By modeling the behaviors of engaged network learners, faculty can provide students with valuable guidance and support.
Furthermore, students can benefit from cognitive apprenticeship, which involves connecting with external communities and professional networks throughout their studies. This approach allows for real-world learning experiences and helps students develop the skills and connections necessary for their future careers.
In conclusion, outcome-based roadmaps offer a more flexible and adaptive approach to product development, allowing teams to focus on solving problems rather than adhering strictly to timelines. However, it is important to first articulate your product strategy and metrics before creating a roadmap, regardless of the approach you choose.
Moreover, universities and colleges should prioritize teaching network learning skills to prepare graduates for the network society we live in. By co-designing frameworks, modeling behaviors, and encouraging engagement with external communities, institutions can equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in their professional fields.
Actionable Advice:
- 1. Prioritize problem-solving: When creating a roadmap, focus on the problems to be solved rather than specific projects. This allows for more flexibility and adaptation as circumstances change.
- 2. Clearly communicate expectations: Set realistic expectations by explaining that roadmaps are not commitments but rather a way to understand how projects fit together and evolve. This reduces pressure and allows for more iterative approaches.
- 3. Foster network learning skills: Institutions should prioritize teaching students how to engage with professional communities and networks. Co-design frameworks and encourage faculty to model the behaviors of engaged network learners.
By incorporating outcome-based roadmaps and network learning skills into our approach to product development and education, we can create a more dynamic and effective system that better prepares individuals for success in the modern world.
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