Do Things That Don’t Scale

The article “Do Things that Don’t Scale” shares interesting insights to do unscalable things important for product managers to build products that customers love.?

?? Recruit – The initial set of users is very important in shaping the product for the larger audience. Know your customers firsthand to learn from their pains, and what frustrates them. Build closely with them, and have a feedback loop.

?? Solve your own problem or find a critical pain –An obese and bullied kid turned accidental entrepreneur who got into fitness after making some wrong choices and ruining his own metabolism. But with years of consistent hard work, insane work ethics, and dedication, finally transformed his life even with a back injury. A software consultant turned fitness enthusiast started a WhatsApp community to help people seeking advice. Initially, the problem was his own health, which turned out to be a critical pain for millions. From mere advice to people seeking guidance to WhatsApp groups to FB to now a renowned company soon launching an IPO. Do the right things, for the right people, solving the right problem.

?? Prevent Bad Ripple effect- Delighting customers is not focused on by all startups. But if done right can prevent bad ripple effects triggered by unsatisfied customers affecting start-ups’ growth and reputations.?

?? Experience – A superior customer experience can provide you with a competitive edge, help you disrupt the market, enhance customer loyalty, and reduce churn. Focus on providing core value rather than scaling. E.g.- Ride sharing service Uber disrupted the industry by providing a more convenient and user-friendly experience.

??Fire- Remember the accidental entrepreneur who came into fitness for his own goals. He had his fire burning. His colleagues and friends became early adopters, and together, they made it big. Keep the fire burning to live your passion.

?? Focus on building relationships over transactions?

?? Start small and make it big

This article focuses on knowing your customers deeply, finding the right pain, and delivering value /product loved by customers.