How do you define your product vision when you're not sure?

In my experience, defining WHY can assist a Product Manager in getting closer to the Product Vision when unsure. When a Product Manager defines "why," the following benefits emerge: 1. Provides direction and clarity: Defining why helps prioritize features and make future decisions. 2. Enhances understanding of users: It takes your understanding of users to the next level. 3. Defines the impact of product vision: Clarifies the impact of the product vision. Now, let's also analyze how to create a good "why" definition: 1. Keep it user-centric 2. Be action-oriented 3. Make it relatable and emotionally appealing

Challenge your “why” The product vision must be dictated by the needs of the market and in sync with the company's vision. Therefore, it must be ensured that the vision really touches the pain points of the customers and is not just motivated by innovative technology. It is also worth re-examining the vision in the sense of what I bring to the market and what is my uniqueness. If the answer is vague or unclear, the vision must be reexamined. Vision at the end of the day needs to be translated into strategy and capabilities. If it connects, you're on the right track and if it doesn't, reexamine the vision.

A useful technique is to start with why and ask it three times. This technique helps product managers to dig deeper into the purpose of the product and uncover the core motivation behind it. It also helps to avoid confusing the product vision with the product itself or the product strategy.

?? Start by identifying the core problem your product will solve. Ask why this problem matters and who it impacts. This foundational step clarifies the purpose behind your product and its potential value to users. ?? Think big and long-term. Envision the ultimate impact your product could have. Imagine its best possible outcome and how it could evolve over time. This aspirational vision guides your strategic direction and inspires your team. ?? Keep it simple and memorable. Craft a concise, clear vision statement that encapsulates your product's essence and value. A straightforward vision is easier to communicate, remember, and rally around, ensuring alignment and focus across your team.

When uncertain about defining your product vision, adopt a "think big and long term" approach. Envision the ultimate impact and value your product could bring to users in the distant future. Consider broader industry trends and emerging technologies. While remaining adaptable, outline a grand yet flexible vision that can guide your product development efforts. This forward-thinking perspective helps align your team with ambitious goals and allows for strategic adjustments along the way, fostering a resilient and inspiring product vision.

Consider the following great example of Airbnb: 'Belong anywhere.' Airbnb's vision is concise yet powerful, emphasizing the idea of creating a sense of belonging for users in any location they choose to stay. This statement simplifies the essence of the product and illustrates what they aim to do for customers. Considering that it addresses customer problems and provides a solution in just two words is a great example here. Do not become dependent on the current market, regulations, or even existing technology. Think long term and foster alignment within your teams and business regarding what your product is going to achieve in the long term.

Think big and long-term when defining your product vision. ?? Imagine the ultimate impact and value your product could bring. Envision its evolution and the best possible version of your product. ? One thing I've found helpful is using vision boards and future press releases. These tools help visualize the long-term aspirations and communicate them effectively to your team and stakeholders. ?? Don’t be constrained by current realities. Aim high and set ambitious goals. This forward-thinking approach fosters innovation and aligns your team towards a shared, inspiring vision for the future.

When unsure about defining your product vision, focus on simplicity and memorability. Craft a concise and clear statement that encapsulates the core purpose and value of your product. Ensure that it resonates with both your team and your target audience, making it easy to understand and remember. This straightforward approach provides a foundation for clarity and alignment, facilitating more informed decisions and actions as your product evolves.

In my experience, I have observed that simple, one-line product vision statements tend to be the most memorable. Ensure the vision is long-term and customer-centric. Examples like Elon Musk's 'Occupy Mars' demonstrate the effectiveness of a simple, long-term vision that motivates the entire organization. Consider framing it as a 'moon shot,' aligning with the ambitious scope of your product.

When unsure about your product vision, focus on simplicity and memorability. ?? Craft a clear, concise statement that encapsulates the core purpose and value of your product. ?? In my experience, simple one-liners like "Occupy Mars" by Elon Musk are incredibly effective. They are easy to remember and communicate the essence of the vision. ?? Ensure the vision is customer-centric and long-term. A straightforward vision statement helps in aligning your team and stakeholders, driving clarity and focus across the organization.

When uncertain about defining your product vision, prioritize validation and iteration. Engage with your target audience through surveys, user feedback, and testing to understand their needs and preferences. Iterate on your initial vision based on the insights gained, ensuring alignment with user expectations. This iterative process allows you to refine and evolve your product vision organically, fostering adaptability and increasing the likelihood of creating a compelling and resonant vision that truly meets user needs.

Prioritize validation and iteration when defining your product vision. ?? Engage with your target audience through surveys, feedback, and testing to understand their needs and preferences. ?? One thing I've found helpful is to iterate on the vision based on user insights. This iterative process ensures the vision aligns with user expectations and remains relevant. ?? Regularly review and update the vision to reflect new learnings and market changes. This continuous improvement approach keeps the vision dynamic and adaptable, increasing its effectiveness and impact.