Working backwards is a framework that enables product teams to think about a product without being constrained by a detailed roadmap. Instead, it encourages them to focus on the customer's needs and preferences to effectively launch a product that caters to their requirements.
Amazon was the first company to introduce this approach to product development, which aligns with one of its leadership principles - customer obsession. The methodology necessitates clear articulation of the objectives associated with new product ideas. These ideas can take various forms, such as blog posts or press releases, but they must envision the launch of the product or feature as if it were happening today.>
Furthermore, this model requires product managers to write objective documents that help sell their idea internally. If these ideas impress leadership, the next step is mapping out what resources and support are required for successful execution.
What is a Working Backwards Template?
The Working Backwards template is valuable for outlining your product development journey. While templates may vary, they typically include the following information:
1. Final product/outcome: This serves as the starting point and outlines what the final product will be or where you plan to end your product launch, such as with a press release.
2. Available opportunities: This stage helps determine whether pursuing the product is worthwhile.
3. Challenges and solutions: Here, you'll identify any obstacles that must be overcome to gain stakeholder support and satisfy customers.
4. Roadmap: A high-level roadmap is created to visualize the stages of product development.
5. Task assignment: Tasks are assigned to bring your product to life, ensuring a successful launch.
A Working Backwards template proves to be a valuable asset for several reasons. Firstly, it saves you the trouble of starting from scratch as you can readily use a pre-designed template. Secondly, the format is user-friendly and easy to navigate, allowing you to input all the pertinent information with utmost ease.
Furthermore, it fosters teamwork and collaboration among team members. The online accessibility of these templates enables teams to share and exchange ideas seamlessly. With features like commenting, sharing information, and virtual collaboration options available at their fingertips, remote teams can work together effectively without any hindrances.
Create a working backwards framework
FigJam's online whiteboard provides an ideal platform for creating and sharing a Working Backwards framework. To get started, follow these steps:
1. Begin with a challenge statement.
Identify the problem you want to solve or the opportunity you wish to pursue, considering the customer's perspective. This is also known as a customer problem statement.
2. Define the ideal future state.
Brainstorm with your team about potential new business models and structures that could make significant new products possible. Use sticky notes to explore various possibilities- there are no wrong answers!
3. Map out the actions required to reach your ideal future state.
Determine how long it will take to transition from your current position to the ideal state. Addressing this question will enable your team to have practical discussions about resource allocation, processes, systems, and implementation.
4. Develop a plan for the next steps.
Once you have identified the necessary steps towards achieving your ideal future state, create a task backlog. Prioritize each task and assign ownership of responsibilities to specific team members.
What to include in your Working Backwards template
Working Backwards templates can vary depending on your customers, challenges, and the product or service you plan to launch. Ideally, the following information should be included:
1. Who is your customer?
IIdentifying your target customer will enable you to make informed decisions about product development and effective marketing strategies.
2. What is the customer opportunity or challenge?
How will your new product or service address customer needs and solve their problems? Understanding this will ensure that your product or service fills a gap in the market.
3. What is the most important benefit for customers?
Understanding the primary benefit customers receive from using your product or service is essential to offering them something of value.
4. What are your customers' needs and wants?
Identifying what customers are looking for will enable you to create a product or service that meets their requirements.
5. What should the customer experience look like?
Remember how launching a new product or service could impact the customer experience, and use our customer journey map to understand it better.
Remember that this document is a living, iterative resource for your team.
