Bret Wardle: A Visionary in Product Management and Design

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of product management, Bret Wardle stands out as a paragon of innovation and versatility. Residing in Salt Lake City, UT, USA, Bret is currently a collegiate instructor and speaker, drawing from a rich well of experience in product management and design. With a unique journey from video game design to product management, Bret's story is one of adaptability, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Personal and Professional Background

Bret Wardle’s academic journey is as unique as his career path. He holds an Associates and a Bachelors Degree in Multimedia Design and Digital Entertainment from a now-defunct tech school, a testament to his adaptability and resilience in the face of change. His professional credentials are further bolstered by prestigious certifications like the Nielsen Norman UX Master Certified (UXMC) and Pragmatic Marketing Level 5 (PMC-V), which underscore his deep commitment to user experience and marketing proficiency.

Journey into Product Management

Initially aspiring to be a video game designer, Bret’s career took a significant turn due to the volatile nature of the gaming industry. The closures of three game studios he was a part of and the grueling work hours led him to pivot towards product and software management. This transition was not just a career shift but a strategic move towards better work-life balance and financial stability. Influenced by renowned figures like Don Norman and Jakob Nielsen, Bret successfully navigated the challenges of shifting from an industry often stigmatized to one where he could leverage his diverse skill set.

Professional Highlights and Achievements

Bret’s professional journey is dotted with significant achievements. He has been a part of major projects like Sims 3 and MLB: The Bigs, and contributed to the redesign of the Overstock.com homepage. His TEDx Talk titled "Can a 90s video game be a standard for experience design?" and his book "Gamification for Product Excellence" are notable accomplishments. Additionally, his contribution to the FedCheck product, which is awaiting a US patent, showcases his ability to innovate in technical design.

Lessons Learned and Insights

The biggest takeaway from Bret’s career is the value of being a multi-skilled professional. His game design background equipped him with a broad skill set, enabling him to lead cross-functional teams effectively. Bret advises aspiring product managers to cultivate curiosity and empathy, emphasizing the importance of understanding and catering to user needs. He envisions a future where product managers are freed from routine project management tasks, possibly through AI integration, allowing them to focus more on creative and research-oriented aspects of product development.

Personal Interests and Motivations

Outside of his professional life, Bret enjoys video games, spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, and engaging in sports. His primary motivation in product management comes from interacting with customers, understanding their needs, and translating those insights into effective product solutions. His guiding principle, NIEHITO ("Nothing Important Ever Happens In The Office"), reflects his belief in the value of direct customer engagement.

Contact and Follow-Up

Bret welcomes professional connections and interactions. He can be reached through his LinkedIn profile, email, and personal website. He has consented to the publishing of this information and encourages those interested to reach out. Additionally, Bret is planning to expand his presence on YouTube, focusing on gamification and product design principles.

Conclusion

Bret Wardle’s journey is a beacon for aspiring product managers and design enthusiasts. His transition from video game design to product management exemplifies adaptability, while his achievements and insights provide valuable lessons for those navigating the complex world of product development. His story is a reminder that with the right skills, mindset, and motivation, one can not only adapt to change but also thrive and lead in new domains.