The Inevitable Standardization in Product Management: Codifying Creativity Without Killing It

In today's rapid-fire digital world, engineering has found its rhythm, optimizing its processes like a well-oiled machine. Customer support, like clockwork, measures customer satisfaction to the last detail. Sales? They've essentially written the book on streamlining processes and tools to drive deal flow effectively. However, when it comes to the realm of product management, things are a bit... wilder.

Let's rewind a bit.

A World Without Borders... Sort Of

For many years, the role of the product manager had a certain mystique. With a touch of enigma, they were pioneers in navigating the vast wilderness of product development. Mainly left to their own devices, these trailblazers were given a rather wide berth. The idea? Simple. Don't stifle creativity. Don't hinder innovation. After all, wasn't that the secret sauce of a groundbreaking product?

And, to be fair, there's some truth to this. Every product manager brings a unique perspective, a personal touch. But like any role, we've already reached a pivotal evolutionary juncture. The overarching question emerges: How can product management embrace standardization without dimming its innovative spark? (Note: We CAN do this, it is just a measure of figuring out that HOW)

Setting the Stage: The Need for Codification

Stepping into an organization as a product leader today can feel overwhelming. Unlike engineering or sales, we haven't truly codified and standardized product best practices. Sure, there are frameworks and methodologies, but a universal standard? Sure, some of the best organizations (e.g., Netflix, Amazon, Spotify, etc.) have their own version of this and leverage it as a competitive advantage.

BUT many companies are struggling to develop and manage their product development process.

While I'm a fan of giving people latitude in how they work, you can't have custom and bespoke processes everywhere around how you create and grow your products.

Why the hesitation to codify and standarize product management? Part of it stems from product managers' innate reluctance towards adopting systems they didn't craft personally. There's an underlying fear: Will standardization muzzle creativity?

However, the tide is turning. With the complexity of products and the market's rapid pace, there's an emerging realization. Consistency in how people operate and function isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a need-to-have.

The Power of Process: Unleashing Uniformity

The advantages of having standardized processes and tools across teams are multifold:

1. Clarity: Everyone knows the game plan. This simplifies decision-making, priority setting, and even mundane day-to-day tasks.
2. Scalability: As teams grow and new members join, there's no reinvention of the wheel. They plug into an existing, proven system.
3. Efficiency: Time isn't wasted on debating processes. Instead, it's channeled into building and innovating.
4. Measurability: Standard processes offer metrics. Metrics offer insights. Insights lead to improved performance and enhanced products.

Think about it this way. If every musician in an orchestra decided to play their own tune, the result would be, well, noise. But with a conductor, a defined piece, and practice, you get symphony.

Treading the Line: Balancing Creativity with Standardization

It's pivotal to strike the right balance. While many product management leaders advocate for standardizing work processes in product management, we aren't suggesting putting creativity in a straitjacket. It's about creating a balance where product managers can be efficient and innovative.

In essence, it's akin to giving artists quality brushes, vibrant colors, and a canvas – and then letting them paint their masterpiece.

Wrapping It Up: The Road Ahead

The journey towards product rigor isn't about clamping down on the wild spirit of product managers. Instead, it's about equipping them with the right tools, frameworks, and processes, setting them up for consistent success. As we usher in this era of standardized product management, one thing remains clear: product development's future is systematic and spectacular.

I hope this article sheds light on the importance of intertwining creativity with standardization in product management. #ProductManagement #Innovation #Standardization #BusinessEfficiency