The Intersection of Reading and Product Management: Tools for Success

The Intersection of Reading and Product Management: Tools for Success

Introduction:
Reading, a practice invented 5400 years ago, remains the most efficient way to absorb information. With the average person reading at a speed of 250 words per minute (wpm), it is clear that reading has stood the test of time. However, while the act of reading itself has not changed significantly, the tools and approaches to enhance reading have evolved. In this article, we will explore the connection between reading and product management, highlighting the traits of great PMs and the tools available to upgrade the reading experience.

Reading for PMs:
Great PMs possess several key traits that contribute to their success. One such trait is the ability to write well, as effective communication is essential in conveying ideas and driving consensus among team members. They also strike a balance between building consensus and making tough decisions when necessary. In addition, great PMs constantly live in the future, working backwards to fine-tune product strategy and maximize business impact. They are voracious in seeking insights into customer needs and pain points, utilizing research, experiments, and cross-functional collaboration.

Upgrading the Reading Experience:
To enhance the reading experience, there are various tools and techniques available. One notable approach is inspectional reading, which involves skimming through a book to gain a general understanding before diving into a more detailed analysis. Analytical reading, on the other hand, delves deeper into the text, focusing on understanding the author's arguments and evaluating their validity. Synoptical reading combines multiple texts to gain a holistic view of a particular topic.

Social reading plugins have also emerged as a trend in recent years. These plugins allow readers to connect with others, sharing insights, and engaging in discussions. Glasp curators act as filters, helping readers discover relevant and high-quality content. This social reading trend is expected to continue growing, providing readers with a more interactive and community-driven experience.

Actionable Advice:

1. Develop strong writing skills: As a PM, effective communication is crucial. Invest time in improving your writing abilities to convey your ideas clearly and influence stakeholders.

2. Embrace cross-functional collaboration: Seek insights from various sources, including research, experiments, and partnerships. By involving different teams, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of customer needs and pain points.

3. Explore social reading platforms: Engage in discussions and share insights with other readers. This not only enhances your understanding but also expands your network and exposes you to different perspectives.

Conclusion:
Reading, a practice that has remained relatively unchanged for over 5000 years, intersects with the world of product management. Great PMs possess traits such as effective communication, future-oriented thinking, and a deep understanding of customer needs. By utilizing tools such as inspectional, analytical, and synoptical reading, as well as social reading plugins, PMs can enhance their reading experience and leverage it to amplify their team's impact on the customer experience and business success.