March
2008 "Hot Button" Survey Results
In
March we asked Pivot Point readers, “How
do you get your product team to understand the product strategy and its
connection to company strategy?”
Most respondents use a combination of formal presentations
(92%) and informal
one-on-one’s (71%), with a significant number using emails (58%), visual aids (54%),
and webinars or podcasts
(33%).
Here are a few of the many comments submitted that illustrate the real
power of building and communicating strategic alignment:
“I find it critical that the product team periodically synchs up with
other key departments to ensure product strategy is in synch with
company strategy, marketing strategy, and other key organizational
functions. Routine sharing between departments builds trust and
communication and helps catch gaps in tactics and strategy early before
they become too problematic.”
“The product strategy goes through several steps beginning with
research and understanding what disruptive trends in the market are
taking shape at a small scale. We then confirm our observations through
market investigation and analysis tools and map this back to revenue
indicators. We build a story that sticks and socialize this to general
management. Picking up momentum from cross team initiatives the
executive's are presented the findings and recommendations. In my
experience, avoiding any roadblocks you need a sponsor that sees the
vision and is willing to take the strategy all the way. Without the
sponsor, communicating product strategy into your company strategy is
like building a bridge with no structural support. Customers driving
over the bridge eventually weaken the support and the company strategy
fails.”
“Communicated via web conferences and group presentations to a global
audience, both my product team and our stakeholders, as well as a
version for all staff.”
Aligning product strategy with company strategy is a key to getting the
support you need for your product’s success, and to advance in your
career. Thanks to everyone who responded and commented!
Contact us
to suggest a future Hot Button topic. We'd love to hear your
ideas! |