Prioritize features from "summary" of The Lean Product Playbook by Dan Olsen
When it comes to developing a product, one of the most critical tasks is deciding which features to build. Prioritizing features is essential because you can't build everything at once. Instead, you need to focus on the most important features that will deliver value to your customers. This process involves making tough decisions and trade-offs, as you'll likely have more ideas than you can implement. To prioritize features effectively, you should start by understanding your target customers and their needs. By conducting user research and gathering feedback, you can identify the features that will provide the most value to your users. It's crucial to prioritize features based on their impact on your customers' experience and how they align with your overall product strategy. One helpful framework for prioritizing features is the Kano model. This model classifies features into three categories: basic, performance, and delight. Basic features are essential for your product to be considered, while performance features are expected by customers. Delight features are the ones that exceed customers' expectations and can differentiate your product from the competition. Another valuable tool for prioritizing features is the Value Proposition Canvas. This canvas helps you map out your customers' pains and gains, as well as the features that address them. By focusing on the features that provide the most value to your customers, you can create a product that resonates with them and drives adoption. In addition to prioritizing features based on customer value, you should also consider technical feasibility and business viability. Some features may be too complex or costly to implement, while others may not align with your business goals. By evaluating features across these dimensions, you can make informed decisions about what to build next.- Prioritizing features is a crucial step in the product development process. By focusing on the features that provide the most value to your customers, align with your product strategy, and are feasible to implement, you can create a successful product that meets your customers' needs and drives business growth.