Infiniti Endeavor Gazette - Get together with Senthilnathan

In this Exclusive Series, We're thrilled to introduce you to the Brilliant Minds driving Innovation and Excellence at Infiniti Software Solutions.

Let's shine the spotlight on Mr. Senthil nathan , Product Development Manager

Q1. What was your first project at Infiniti, and how did it shape your approach to product development?

My first project at Infiniti was Ghumo.com. This project was instrumental in shaping my approach to product development. It highlighted the importance of several key elements: market research to understand customer needs and industry trends, gathering and incorporating user feedback to refine the product, staying abreast of technological advancements, analyzing the competition to stay ahead, aligning with business goals, employing agile methodologies for flexibility, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. Each of these aspects has become integral to how I approach every project.

Q2. Can you share a moment when a product you worked on at Infiniti made a significant impact for the company or its customers?

One notable moment was with the AtYourPrice product, where we achieved 100% flight booking automation using web service APIs. This automation eliminated manual errors, significantly sped up the booking process, and ensured that customers received their tickets faster. The improvement in efficiency and accuracy had a profound impact on customer satisfaction and operational effectiveness.

Q3. How do you prioritize tasks and projects when managing multiple deadlines?

Prioritizing tasks and projects with multiple deadlines involves a structured approach:

1. Brainstorm the requirements and projects with all stakeholders to ensure everyone is on the same page.

2. Conduct an impact analysis and document detailed requirements to understand the scope and importance of each task.

3. Divide tasks into multiple sprints, making the workload more manageable and the progress trackable.

4. Identify the right resources for each task and assign responsibilities accordingly.

5. Maintain continuous follow-up and address any challenges immediately during development to keep the project on track.

Q4. What is the most exciting technology trend you’re currently following, and why do you think it’s important?

Python is the most exciting technology trend I’m currently following. It’s important because Python handles big data efficiently, offers simplified coding, and has a vast array of libraries that support various applications. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable tool for modern software development, data analysis, and machine learning.

Q5. Can you describe a time when a project didn’t go as planned? What did you learn from that experience?

Most projects have gone live as planned. However, there have been instances where projects were delayed due to changes in the airline's project team or new requirements arising during the CVT period. These experiences taught me the importance of flexibility, thorough documentation, and contingency planning. They also underscored the need for proactive communication and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances.

Q6. How do you motivate your team during challenging times or projects?

Motivating the team during challenging times involves sharing my own experiences and providing proper guidance and mentoring. Bringing in experts or senior resources to work alongside the team can also help accomplish challenging tasks. Encouragement, support, and the assurance that they are not alone in facing difficulties are key to maintaining morale and productivity.

Q7. What’s your favorite part of the product development process, and why?

There isn’t a specific part of the product development process that I favor over others; we follow the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). However, retrospective meetings stand out as particularly effective. These meetings provide lessons learned and highlight challenges faced during the product development period. This reflection helps improve processes and outcomes for future projects.

Q8. How do you ensure continuous learning and improvement within your team?

Continuous learning and improvement are ensured through one-on-one meetings where we discuss completed and ongoing tasks. These meetings are opportunities to mentor team members, discuss responsibilities, and set goals. Additionally, regular training sessions and encouraging team members to pursue relevant certifications play a crucial role in their professional development.

Q9. What qualities do you believe are essential for someone to succeed in product development?

Hard work, belief in one’s ideas, appreciation of work done, and the ability to guide team members are essential qualities for success in product development. These attributes help in fostering a positive work environment and driving projects to successful completion.

Q10. How do you balance creativity and practicality when developing new products?

Balancing creativity and practicality involves brainstorming sessions with all teams to collect and consolidate ideas. This collaborative approach ensures that creative solutions are grounded in practical feasibility, leading to innovative yet achievable product developments.

Q11. Can you share an example of how collaboration with other departments at Infiniti has led to a successful product outcome?

Yes, on a periodic basis, we conduct meetings to discuss work done, share knowledge, and address challenges faced by different teams. This collaborative approach ensures that all departments are aligned, leveraging their combined expertise to achieve successful product outcomes.

Q12. What do you enjoy most about working at Infiniti, and how does the company support your professional growth?

I truly enjoy working at Infiniti. The company provides a platform to learn new technologies, offers skill development training, and supports employees during financial difficulties. This supportive environment fosters professional growth and continuous learning.

Q13. How has Infiniti’s culture influenced your work and leadership style?

Infiniti’s culture, which appreciates work done and continuously motivates employees to achieve new goals and milestones, has significantly influenced my work and leadership style. It encourages a positive, goal-oriented approach to both personal and team development.

Q14. What unique challenges and opportunities have you encountered at Infiniti compared to your previous roles?

In my previous role, I focused on web service API integration for different products. Now, as a product owner, I coordinate the work of multiple teams, ensuring their efforts are integrated and delivered without delays or issues. This role presents unique challenges and opportunities to lead and manage larger, more complex projects.

Q15. How do you see the future of product development at Infiniti, and what are your goals for the next few years?

I foresee a substantial growth in the product development team at Infiniti, given the numerous products and customers in our pipeline. My goal for the next two to three years is to train and develop new product development leads and managers, ensuring we have the talent needed to support this growth.

Series will be continued with Faces Behind Infiniti…