ETLJ - SP25 - Revolutionizing Product Management - FINAL
ETLJ - SP25 - Revolutionizing Product Management - FINAL
PRODUCT
MANAGEMENT
From Ideation to
Implementation
Utilizing AI/LLMs
ISSN: APPL100010486
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This paper presents tried and tested artificial intelligence/large language model (AI/LLM)
prompts to assist product owners (POs) navigating the phases of the product life cycle. It
is an exploration of how leveraging well-crafted prompts can streamline product owner
and product manager (PM) functions, enhance productivity, and help ensure the devel-
opment of the right products. The paper includes a library of optimal prompts for each
product life cycle phase, using simulated examples. We hope this paper will be valuable
to individuals and businesses by enabling and reducing the time to competence in the
adoption of AI/LLMs by POs and PMs.
Background
Of all our Tribe functions, our POs are the most time-strapped and spend a significant
proportion of their time on crucial tasks. Our most experienced and capable POs are even
more time-strapped, given that they also spend time supporting our newer POs. Our less
experienced POs often neglect to apply several key practices altogether or apply practices
without diligence and rigor, requiring much hand holding from our more experienced
POs and their Agile Coach (AC).
Objectives
Our objective is to build products that are increasingly desirable, feasible, viable, and
sustainable by artificially enhancing the PO function, particularly within the problem
space. We sought to improve efficiency, productivity, and, thus, the flow of work by saving
PO’s time, particularly in their generation of product artifacts. Through our efforts, we
observed a time saving of approximately 26%. We saw a significant reduction in defects
and shift left, thus improving the quality of our products through bringing increased dil-
igence to tasks, particularly within the solution space.
Scope
Throughout the product life cycle—from problem space to solution space—POs and PMs
navigate several critical phases. For the purpose of this paper, we articulate these phases
simply as: discover, define, develop, deliver. Through understanding our POs and their
world, we mapped several key tasks to each phase as follows:
1. Discover
• brainstorm ideas
• create OKRs and metrics
• prioritize tasks
• develop the product vision
We tell our story through a fictitious product owner, “Steve,” and an illustrative prod-
uct. Steve is a new product owner working within the telecoms sector. He has witnessed
the rapid take-up of apps in daily life and believes there is an opportunity to build a
new product that will benefit the engineering function within his company. He wants to
understand the real problems that the function grapples with and identify gaps that a
new product might address.
Management has tasked him with quickly producing a proposal for their Senior Lead-
ership Team (SLT) strategy meeting. He has sector knowledge but is new to the PO func-
tion, embarking on a steep learning curve, and he is time-strapped. He has heard AI/
LLMs can be useful in generating ideas and also in helping people consider things they
may not have thought of.
Brainstorm Ideas
Would you like to explore any of these ideas in more detail or discuss additional solu-
tions?
By using the AI/LLM outputs, Steve was able to quickly draft his proposal in time for
the SLT strategy meeting, where he attained approval to proceed with his idea. A unified
communication platform app to help meet and beat Ofcom Quality of Service targets,
driving end customer satisfaction through assigning jobs to engineers with the correct
skill sets and providing relevant and accurate information to engineers at the point of
need.
Steve knows that “just building a product” is not enough. He wants to focus on outcomes
and impacts for users and his company. Steve has heard OKRs can help drive this think-
ing.
Would you like to dive deeper into any of these OKRs or discuss additional objectives?
Steve understands that if he has too much on his to-do list at one time, nothing gets
done! He knows prioritization is crucial to the PO function. But what should he prioritize
to maximize value, and why?
Lower-Impact Priorities
5. Objective 5: Drive Continuous Improvement and Innovation
• Key Result 1: Implement Feedback Loop
• Key Result 2: Release Regular Updates
• Key Result 3: Monitor and Analyze Performance
• Reasoning: While continuous improvement and innovation are important,
they are ongoing processes that will benefit from the foundation laid by
the higher-impact objectives. Regular updates and feedback loops will
ensure the platform evolves to meet changing needs.
Prioritization Summary
• Optimize Engineer Task Assignment (High Impact)
• Enhance Network Reliability and Performance (High Impact)
• Improve Customer Satisfaction (Medium Impact)
• Streamline Information Delivery to Engineers (Medium Impact)
• Drive Continuous Improvement and Innovation (Lower Impact)
Having used the AI/LLM to help him understand his priorities and associated rationale,
Steve wants to create a compelling vision that he can share with management, his users,
stakeholders, and his team.
By focusing on these key components and long-term goals, the platform will not only
meet but exceed Ofcom Quality of Service targets, driving up end customer satisfaction
and setting new standards in the telecom industry. Would you like to explore any specific
aspects of this vision in more detail?
Using the AI/LLM, Steve has been able to complete the discovery phase for his prod-
uct faster than he ever thought possible. As a new PO, it provided him with ideas he
hadn’t thought of and highlighted considerations that he may have missed.
He knows the AI/LLM cannot do his job for him, but he is finding it enables him to
have more meaningful conversations with management, his users, stakeholders, and his
team, making the best use of his own and everyone else’s limited time. He now embarks
upon the Define phase.
DEFINE
Short Description
Rajesh is a dedicated and experienced senior network engineer working for a leading
telecom company. He is responsible for maintaining network reliability, troubleshooting
issues, and ensuring seamless connectivity for customers.
Challenges
• Network Downtime: Frequent outages and the pressure to restore services
quickly.
• Complex Infrastructure: Managing a vast and intricate network with multiple
components.
• Data Overload: Handling and analyzing large volumes of data from various
sources.
• Field Work: Accessing remote sites and performing on-site repairs can be
challenging.
• Coordination: Ensuring effective communication and coordination among
team members.
• Cybersecurity Threats: Protecting the network from cyber-attacks and unautho-
rized access.
• Keeping Up with Technology: Staying updated with the latest technological
advancements.
Biggest Fears
• Service Failures: Fear of prolonged network outages affecting customer satis-
faction.
• Security Breaches: Concern about potential cyber-attacks compromising net-
work integrity.
• Technological Obsolescence: Worry about falling behind in technological
advancements.
• Work Overload: Fear of being overwhelmed by the volume of tasks and
responsibilities.
Responsibilities
• Network Maintenance: Ensuring the network is operational and performing
optimally.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and resolving network issues promptly.
• Upgrades and Implementations: Installing and configuring new network com-
ponents.
• Data Analysis: Analyzing network performance data to identify and address
issues.
• Team Coordination: Collaborating with other engineers and departments to
ensure smooth operations.
• Customer Support: Assisting with customer inquiries and resolving service-re-
lated issues.
Steve would now like a deeper understanding of his users and engineers within the tele-
coms sector. Steve believes an empathy map might help. He recognizes the necessity of
observing and speaking with users. He thinks the AI/LLM might assist him in consider-
ing some structured questions.
This empathy map helps us understand Rajesh’s needs, thoughts, feelings, actions, pains,
and gains, allowing us to design a platform that effectively addresses his challenges and
enhances his work experience. Would you like to explore any specific aspects of this
empathy map further?
Satisfied that he now understands his users and their pain points well enough to proceed,
Steve now wants to draft some epics and features; the requirements or, more accurately,
the problem statements and challenges that were uncovered during the discover phase.
Through developing epics and, moreover, features, he is moving from problem space to
solution space.
RESPONSE 7: IMPACT
Here’s an impact map in tabular format to create the epics and features for the plat-
form application aimed at meeting and exceeding Ofcom Quality of Service targets and
enhancing customer satisfaction by providing accurate information to engineers and
assigning tasks to the correct skilled engineer.
This impact map helps prioritize the development of features that will have the most
significant impact on meeting Ofcom Quality of Service targets and improving customer
satisfaction. Would you like to explore any specific epics or features in more detail?
DEVELOP
Armed with his initial epics and features, the define phase is complete. Steve wonders if
the AI/LLM can also assist him with the develop phase. He’s heard that journey maps and
story maps are useful techniques.
Desired Out-
Stage Engineer Actions Touchpoints Pain Points Opportunities
comes
- Recognizes the - Company - Lack of - Clear communica- - Engineers
need for a reliable announcements awareness tion of benefits. understand the
tool to manage - Training sessions about the plat- - Demonstrations platform’s value.
network issues. - Internal form’s benefits. and success stories. - Increased inter-
1. Awareness - Learns about the newsletters - Initial est in using the
platform through resistance to platform.
internal communi- change.
cations or training
sessions.
- Smooth
- Registers and sets - Simplified
- Onboarding - Complexity of onboarding
up the platform. onboarding
emails initial setup. experience.
2. Onboarding - Completes initial process.
- Training modules - Learning curve - Engineers feel
training on using the - Interactive
- User manuals for new users. confident using
app. training sessions.
the platform.
- Receives tasks
- Accurate task
assigned based on - Inaccurate task - AI-driven task
- Mobile app notifi- assignments.
3. Task skills and availability. assignments. assignment.
cations - Engineers are
Assignment - Reviews task - Lack of clarity - Clear and detailed
- Task dashboard well-prepared for
details and prepares in task details. task information.
tasks.
for execution.
Explanation of Stages
• Awareness: Engineers become aware of the platform and its benefits through
company communications and training sessions.
• Onboarding: Engineers register, set up the platform, and complete initial train-
ing to understand how to use the app effectively.
• Task Assignment: Engineers receive tasks assigned based on their skills and
availability, with clear and detailed task information.
• Task Execution: Engineers use the app to access real-time information, AR
repair guides, and remote support to complete tasks efficiently.
• Reporting and Feedback: Engineers submit task completion reports and pro-
vide feedback on the platform and task assignment process.
• Continuous Improvement: Engineers participate in ongoing training and devel-
opment, adopting new features and updates to enhance their skills and effi-
ciency.
This detailed breakdown of features into user stories will help in planning and prioritizing
the development tasks for the platform application. Would you like to explore any spe-
cific user stories or features in more detail?
User Registration
User Story: As a new engineer, I want to create an account to access the platform.
• Given a new engineer is on the registration page,
User Story: As an engineer, I want to verify my email address to ensure the security of my
account.
• Given an engineer has registered,
• When they click on the verification link sent to their email,
• Then their email should be verified, and they should be able to log in.
User Story: As an engineer, I want to set up my profile so that my skills and availability are
accurately reflected.
• Given an engineer has logged in for the first time,
• When they complete the profile setup form,
• Then their profile should be saved with the entered details.
Profile Management
User Story: As an engineer, I want to update my profile information so that it remains
current.
• Given an engineer is on their profile page,
• When they update their information and save changes,
• Then the updated information should be reflected in their profile.
User Story: As an engineer, I want to add my certifications and skills to my profile so that
I receive relevant tasks.
• Given an engineer is on their profile page,
• When they add new certifications and skills and save changes,
• Then the new certifications and skills should be saved and displayed in their
profile.
User Story: As an engineer, I want to access training modules on new features so that I
stay updated.
• Given an engineer is logged in,
• When they access and complete a new training module,
• Then their training status should be updated, and they should receive a notifi-
cation of completion.
User Story: As an engineer, I want to receive tasks based on my availability so that I can
manage my workload.
• Given an engineer has set their availability,
• When a new task is created,
• Then the task should be assigned based on their availability, and they should
receive a notification.
User Story: As an engineer, I want to receive reminders for upcoming tasks so that I can
prepare in advance.
• Given an engineer has upcoming tasks,
• When the task start time is approaching,
• Then the engineer should receive a reminder notification.
User Story: As an engineer, I want to receive alerts for network issues so that I can respond
quickly.
• Given a network issue is detected,
• When the system identifies the issue,
User Story: As an engineer, I want step-by-step AR instructions for complex tasks so that
I reduce errors.
• Given an engineer is performing a complex task,
• When they use the AR guide,
• Then they should receive detailed, step-by-step instructions.
User Story: As an expert, I want to provide remote support to field engineers so that
issues are resolved efficiently.
• Given an expert receives a support request,
• When they connect with the field engineer,
• Then they should be able to provide real-time assistance.
Automated Reporting
User Story: As an engineer, I want to submit task completion reports automatically so that
I save time.
• Given an engineer completes a task,
User Story: As a manager, I want to receive automated reports on task completion so that
I can monitor performance.
• Given tasks are completed,
• When the system generates reports,
• Then the manager should receive periodic reports summarizing task comple-
tion and performance metrics.
Feedback Forms
User Story: As an engineer, I want to provide feedback on tasks so that the process can
be improved.
• Given an engineer completes a task,
• When they access the feedback form,
• Then they should be able to submit their feedback easily.
User Story: As a manager, I want to collect feedback from engineers so that we can
enhance the platform.
• Given feedback is submitted,
• When the manager reviews the feedback,
• Then they should see aggregated feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Performance Dashboards
User Story: As an engineer, I want to view my performance metrics and track my progress.
• Given an engineer logs into the platform,
• When they access the performance dashboard,
• Then they should see their key performance metrics and trends.
E-Learning Platform
User Story: As an engineer, I want to take online courses to enhance my skills.
• Given an engineer is logged into the platform,
• When they browse available courses,
• Then they should be able to enroll in and start courses.
User Story: As an engineer, I want to complete certifications through the e-learning plat-
form so that I can validate my expertise.
• Given an engineer completes a course,
• When they pass the certification exam,
• Then they should receive a certification and have it added to their profile.
VR Training Modules
User Story: As an engineer, I want to participate in VR training sessions to practice real-
world scenarios.
• Given an engineer is scheduled for VR training,
• When they start the VR session,
• Then they should experience an immersive training environment.
User Story: As a trainer, I want to create VR training modules so that engineers can learn
in an immersive environment.
• Given a trainer is developing a new module,
• When they design and publish the VR training,
• Then engineers should be able to access and complete the training.
Create the roadmap in Excel. We will be using a two-week sprint for execution and
four developers, two testers, and one end-to-end designer. We will be following the
scrum methodology for execution. Include in the roadmap timeline for CST testing,
end-to-end testing development, and design. Show how many sprints it might take to
complete. Give me the product roadmap as a diagram.
Steve shares the Product Requirements Document with his team. He now wishes to
create release notes for his product.
Release Notes
Release Date: December 1, 2024
Platform Application Version: 1.2.0
New Features
Optimize Engineer Task Assignment
Improvements
• Enhanced User Interface: The platform’s user interface has been updated for
better usability and navigation, making it easier for engineers to access the
information they need.
• Performance Optimization: Various performance improvements have been
made to ensure the platform runs smoothly and efficiently, even under heavy
load.
Bug Fixes
• Fixed: An issue where task notifications were not being sent to some engi-
neers.
• Fixed: A bug that caused delays in real-time data updates on the dashboard.
• Fixed: Minor UI glitches in the task assignment module.
Upcoming Features
• AR-Based Repair Guides: We are working on integrating augmented reality
repair guides to assist engineers with complex tasks.
• Remote Expert Assistance: Soon, engineers will be able to request real-time
support from remote experts directly through the platform.
We are excited to bring these new features and improvements to our platform, helping
us meet and exceed Ofcom Quality of Service targets and drive up customer satisfaction.
Thank you for your continued support and feedback.
For any questions or support, please contact our help desk at support@telecomplatform.
com.
With release notes in hand, Steve recognizes the importance of transparency and suc-
cinctly telling the story to management. He can sometimes find it challenging to strike
the right balance between sharing enough information and too much information and
calls upon the AI/LLM to assist.
I am pleased to inform you that we have successfully deployed two critical features to our
platform application: Optimize Engineer Task Assignment and Streamline Information
Delivery to Engineers. This deployment marks a significant milestone in our ongoing
efforts to enhance network reliability, meet Ofcom Quality of Service targets, and drive
up customer satisfaction.
Expected Outcomes
• Enhanced Network Reliability: By optimizing task assignments and providing
real-time information, we expect a significant reduction in network downtime
and improved incident response times.
• Improved Customer Satisfaction: These features will help us deliver higher
service quality, leading to increased customer satisfaction scores and reduced
complaints.
• Operational Efficiency: Streamlined workflows and better resource utilization
will result in cost savings and more efficient operations.
We are confident that these enhancements will greatly contribute to our strategic goals
and help us maintain our competitive edge in the telecom industry. I would like to extend
my gratitude to the entire team for their hard work and dedication in making this deploy-
ment a success.
Steve recognizes that eliciting customer feedback is crucial in enabling him to further
develop his Product. But what questions should he use?
General Feedback
• What overall improvements have you noticed in our service since the imple-
mentation of these new features?
• Are there any additional features or improvements you would like to see in the
future?
• How likely are you to recommend our service to others based on your recent
experiences?
These questions should help gather detailed and valuable feedback from customers
regarding the new features. If you need any adjustments or additional questions, feel
free to let me know!
Steve summarizes known bugs for management, prioritizes them, and ensures they
are scoped into future releases alongside additional features.
Steve now has a huge volume of verbatim feedback from his customers. Steve knows the
value that can be unlocked through truly understanding his customers, and it’s so often
within the verbatim feedback where the gems of insight reside. There’s just so much to
analyze, and he’s wary that he may transfer his own biases into the analysis. He turns to
the AI/LLM once more.
Steve is amazed at the speed and accuracy with which the AI LLM has analyzed the
verbatim customer feedback. It has also returned some ideas he had not even remotely
considered.
CONCLUSION
In this white paper, we have explored the transformative potential of AI LLMs in revo-
lutionizing product management from ideation to implementation. By leveraging well-
crafted prompts, product owners and product managers can significantly enhance their
productivity, streamline their work, and ensure the development of high-quality prod-
ucts that meet user demands.
Through our detailed examination of each phase of the product life cycle - discover,
define, develop, and deliver, we have demonstrated how AI /LLMs can assist in brain-
storming ideas, creating OKRs, prioritizing tasks, developing product visions, and much
more.
The use of AI LLMs not only saves time but also brings a level of diligence and rigor to
tasks that might otherwise be overlooked, ultimately leading to better value realization
and improved product quality.
We have used a fictitious product and the persona of a new product owner to tell our
story. In practice, many of the techniques we have articulated within our prompts must
be conducted in collaboration with users, stakeholders, and developers. The function of
the AI LLM that we exhibit should thus be considered as analogous to that of a pair pro-
grammer.
Key takeaways from our paper include:
• Efficiency and productivity: AI LLMs can automate and optimize various tasks,
allowing POs and PMs to focus on strategic decision-making and innovation.
Gayathri Shriram began her career in 2002 within Rittal before joining Synectix as a
design engineer in 2004. In 2006 she became a team leader for Changepond Technol-
ogies, subsequently progressing as an associate consultant for Siemens in 2008. She
joined TCS in 2012 as unit agile leader, driving TCS business and IT transformation, and
enabling the agile transformation of a leading UK telecommunications client, Openreach.
Gayathri spearheads several agile transformation initiatives across the Openreach Tribes
that collectively design, build, and maintain all systems that enable Openreach to func-
tion. She currently leads on requirements excellence and value stream mapping of the
business unit’s end-to-end process, also pioneering the use of AI/LLMs by product own-
ers and product managers. With a strong emphasis on agile values and principles, she
brings over twenty-three years of experience within IT, encompassing twelve years as an
agile coach, and finalist for the ITP Awards Innovator of Year.