Making Impact Measurement Easier: My Approach to Translating Experience into Product Success
Today, I want to dive into a topic that's often overlooked but so crucial for product managers like us: measuring impact.
Let's be real – it's not always easy to gauge the true impact of our products beyond the usual metrics like revenue and user growth. But fear not because I've got some insights to share on making this process a little less daunting.
And when you come from a non-conventional background into product, when you’re asked to describe your impact, it can get hairy. It’s not super straightforward, but you can make it straightforward if you break it down to a problem-solution formula. Because that’s a big part of what product management is committing to working on daily.
First, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: why is measuring impact so hard? Well, for starters, it's because the impact isn't always quantifiable in neat little numbers. Sure, we can track conversions and engagement rates, but what about the broader implications of our products on society, the environment, or even mental well-being? Those are the kinds of questions that keep us up at night.
But here's the thing – just because something is hard doesn't mean it's impossible. In fact, I've found that by taking a more holistic approach to impact measurement, we can uncover some significant insights. So, how do I like to tackle this challenge? Let me break it down for you.
Define Your North Star: Every product needs a guiding light – a clear vision of success. For me, this often means identifying the core values and principles that drive my product forward. Whether it's promoting inclusivity, sustainability, or social good, having a North Star helps me stay focused on the bigger picture.
Broaden Your Metrics: While revenue and user growth are essential, they only tell part of the story. That's why I like to broaden my metrics to include customer satisfaction, brand sentiment, and even employee morale. By looking beyond the numbers, we can better understand our product's impact on various stakeholders.
Listen to Your Users: Your users are your best source of feedback – so why not listen to what they say? I make it a point to engage with users regularly through surveys, interviews, and feedback sessions. Not only does this help me understand their needs and pain points, but it also provides valuable insights into the real-world impact of my product.
Embrace Continuous Improvement: Impact measurement isn't a one-and-done deal – it's an ongoing process of learning and adaptation. That's why I'm a big believer in continuous improvement. Whether it's iterating on features based on user feedback or refining our measurement strategies over time, there's always room to grow.
Celebrate Small Wins: Impact doesn't always come in the form of grandiose achievements – sometimes, it's the little victories that matter most. That's why I make it a point to celebrate small wins along the way. Whether it's a positive review from a user or a successful product launch, every step forward is a cause for celebration. Sometimes, there can be great byproducts that come out of the major problem you were trying to solve that feel big, but aren’t necessarily driving complete business value, but should be mentioned.
Here’s an example of a story I just did for an interview that I’m proud of where I wasn’t a product manager, but I had a cross-over a lot of PM responsibilities that allowed me to tell a story effectively like a PM.
Now, let's discuss measuring success from unconventional backgrounds to product experience. As someone who's had a diverse journey, I've learned that success can come in many forms. Whether you're a former journalist, artist, or even a scientist, your unique background brings a fresh perspective to product management.
For example, journalists are skilled at storytelling and uncovering insights – invaluable in understanding user needs and crafting compelling product narratives. Artists bring creativity and empathy to the table, helping us design products that resonate with users on a deeper level. Scientists excel at data analysis and experimentation, enabling us to make informed decisions and drive innovation.
So, don't underestimate the power of your unconventional background. Embrace your unique strengths and leverage them to make an impact in the world of product management.
So, there you have it – my approach to measuring impact and embracing diverse backgrounds in product management. Is it easy? Not always. But is it worth it? Absolutely. By taking a more holistic approach to impact measurement and embracing our diverse experiences, we can drive meaningful change and positively impact the world.
Until next time, keep innovating and never stop striving for impact!
