Product Management & AI-Breaking the AI Hype: Focus on Solutions, Not Algorithms
Product management (PM) is often seen as a complex discipline involving roadmaps, strategies, and cutting-edge technologies. However, at its core, the essence of a PM’s work boils down to something remarkably simple: solving customer problems and creating engaging, delightful experiences. Yet, this fundamental principle is frequently overlooked in the race to innovate.
The goal of a PM isn’t to build the most advanced algorithm or adopt the flashiest new technology. Instead, it’s to identify and solve the most pressing customer problems or pursue opportunities that deliver maximum impact for both customers and the business. It sounds straightforward, but the execution is often where teams falter.
The AI and Data Science Trap
With the rise of AI and its rapid adoption across industries, many PMs and their teams find themselves under immense pressure. The focus often shifts to showcasing AI capabilities — building sophisticated algorithms and launching them quickly — to prove to stakeholders and customers that the company is “on top” of this transformative wave.
This rush often leads to a backward approach to problem-solving:
While this sequence might sound logical at first glance, it’s fundamentally flawed. Developing an innovative algorithm and then hunting for a problem to apply it to is akin to building a key and then searching for a lock. It might fit some locks, but it’s unlikely to address the most critical needs.
Starting with the Right Focus
The right approach flips this sequence:
This shift in perspective ensures that teams prioritize solving real, impactful problems. By identifying customer pain points and brainstorming potential solutions, PMs can then determine which algorithm or technology best addresses the problem. This approach not only enhances the likelihood of success but also ensures that resources are spent on what truly matters to customers and the business.
Steering the Team in the Right Direction
As a PM, especially in the AI space, your role is to guide your team and stakeholders toward this customer-first mindset. This means:
- Starting with Customer Insights: Dive deep into customer needs, pain points, and aspirations. Understand what truly matters to them.
- Evaluating Solutions: Brainstorm and evaluate potential solutions without immediately jumping to technology as the answer. Focus on practicality and impact.
- Leveraging Technology Thoughtfully: Only after identifying the right solution should you consider how AI, machine learning, or other algorithms can be leveraged to implement it effectively.
The Long-Term Impact
By following this approach, you not only ensure that your team’s work is meaningful and impactful but also avoid the pitfalls of pursuing technology for its own sake. The result is a more focused team, better customer outcomes, and ultimately, a stronger alignment between business goals and customer success.
In the age of AI, where the temptation to lead with technology is immense, staying true to the fundamentals of product management — solving customer problems — is what sets exceptional PMs apart.
