The Product Management Grid

Demystifying the product management discipline

A framework for aspiring product managers, product leaders, and recruiters for a shared vocabulary.

I no longer assume I know what someone does when they say they are a “Product Manager”.

This year, I had a chance to have over 50 or so one-on-ones with folks from outside of work in different stages of their product management journey. No two roles were the same. I distilled our conversations into one picture in an attempt to put a unifying model to the various flavors of product management discipline out there.

Is this for me?

• If you are a beginner pursuing a career in product management, hopefully, this helps you to evaluate an entry point based on your topics of interest.
• If you are attempting to switch your role from a project manager to a product manager, this booklet will help you prioritize a few focus areas depending on your experience.
• If you are a leader owning a portfolio of products, the framework will offer you a few first principles to help unblock your product teams.
• And lastly, if you are a recruiter hiring for product management roles, the concepts presented here will enable you to have relevant conversations with candidates in setting the right expectations.

Is this for free? Yes! Are there any strings attached? Yes!

• If you finish reading through the booklet, would love to hear your feedback. 
• If you like what you read, please pass it along to someone who may benefit from the framework. 
• If you love what you read, consider adding $10 more in your next contribution to your favorite cause!