Once a Product Manager always a Product Manager

SpaceX’s Crew Dragon launched successfully today. BBC Radio 4’s narrative questioned how Elon Musk could be involved in so many projects; from Tesla cars to L.A. underground high-speed loop. There seems to be misconception from government, media and education establishments that the way to progress is to focus on one thing. Well we’ve seen how well that’s turned out for Theresa May and Brexit.

Enter the product manager. One of the most satisfying roles I’ve ever had was that of a product manager in a fast moving, high tech organization. 

Road Maps – This is the first tool of the product manager and it’s the way that multiple products are managed through their product life cycle. There is a need for this rather than focus on product. Even in my small business today I have products that are ‘cash cows’, ‘in introduction’ and ‘in development’. It’s mapping what may seem like a myriad of products in such a way as to ensure a continuous growing income for your company.

Innovation – There are many specialists around. I’ve heard it described as ‘people who know more and more about less and less’. We need people with deep knowledge. The problem is that they rarely make major innovative steps. A good product manager will orchestrate innovation by bringing specialists together while anticipating the needs of the market.

Serendipity – Finally, don’t destroy your serendipity by focusing too much. Leave that to your specialists. A good product manager eyes are outside the organization. Networking and following up on ideas may not always pay off but when they do you’ll make quantum leaps in your business.

So… Be like Elon. Elon doesn’t focus on one thing!!