An informed organization has the power to take the right actions supporting strategy. Clear shared processes is a great way to build an informed organization.

Have you ever seen a great product fail to live up to its potential because it drifted away from its true vision? Have you ever seen a good product fail in the marketplace when small adjustments could have made the difference? If the product development process is aligned with strategy, those responsible can move fast and get the product to market. Whatever the strategy, having a shared understanding of the process allows product development to move fast and meet strategic expectations.

As a new product works it’s way from concept through proof of concept and into the marketplace, things can change. Product management may bring new insights that highlight product features based on the marketplace. Sales may uncover must-have features needed to overcome key customer objections.

Now what?

Should the product evolve based on this new information or should the vision be delivered? Both are perfectly legitimate strategies. If you leave it up to the team and the wrong path is taken, who is responsible if the results don’t meet expectations?

You, that’s who!

A clear process can help your team move fast rather than tread water on what to do next. Some products demand that vision is delivered. Without a clear process, the team may change the product, losing the vision and the final product misses the mark. On the other hand, if the environment requires a product to evolve and meet a dynamic marketplace, sticking with the vision will result in equally poor results.

If the process supports strategy and everyone knows the process, the product goes to market as intended, moving the business down the intended path.

About the author

Kyle Parsons helps businesses create opportunities by building a structured understanding what is to be accomplished and the related technology required. This shared understanding of capabilities, processes, and technology, allows the organization to prioritize high-value process and technology investments.