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Product Thinking Newsletter by Melissa Perri

Inbound vs Outbound Product Management

Published 6 days ago • 2 min read

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Hi Product people,

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How do we balance the needs of internal tools with customer-facing products in product management?

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This week on Product Thinking, I dove into the topic of inbound vs outbound product management. It's a common misconception that inbound product management, which deals with internal tools, carries less risk than outbound, customer-facing products. But I believe both require the same strategic rigor to ensure they deliver value.

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"Just because a tool is internal doesn't mean it doesn't affect the customer experience. If a bank teller's tools aren't designed well, the customer will feel it too."

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During the episode, I discuss why it's crucial to treat both types of product management with the same strategic approach. We need to focus on value streams and remember that the essentials of strategy, discovery, and delivery remain the same, even if the tools and methods differ slightly.

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Are you working on internal tools or external products? How do you ensure both deliver great value? Join the conversation by listening to the full episode.

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🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Apple | Spotify​

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Looking forward to hearing from you!

See you soon,

Melissa Perri

Founder Product Institute, Board Member, and Teacher
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You’ll hear us talk about:

  • 1:37 - Understanding Inbound vs Outbound Product Management

Melissa explores the differences and similarities between inbound and outbound product management. She emphasizes the necessity for a strategic approach in both areas, debunking the myth that inbound product management carries less risk.

  • 4:07 - Impact of Internal Tools on Customer Experience

Discussion on how internal tools like bank teller systems and insurance claim algorithms can significantly affect the customer experience. This section highlights the importance of strategic design for internal products.

  • 6:10 - Consistency in Product Management Practices

Melissa stresses that the fundamentals of product management, such as strategy and discovery, remain the same regardless of the product type. She highlights the importance of maintaining a focus on discovery and delivery in AI product management.

Other Resources:

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THE PRODUCT THINKING PODCAST IS SPONSORED BY

Product Management training at scale for teams and individuals, created by Melissa Perri.

​LEARN MORE​

THE PRODUCT THINKING PODCAST IS SPONSORED BY

Product Management training at scale for teams and individuals, created by Melissa Perri.

​LEARN MORE​

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Do you have a product dilemma you just can’t solve? Are you in need of some pointed career guidance? We’ve got a direct line to Melissa, so now’s your chance to ask her anything you’d like. You can record a voice message here, or you can submit a question via form below. Melissa just might answer it in a future Dear Melissa segment of the podcast.

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The CPO Accelerator is a members-only live virtual course for product leaders taught by Melissa Perri. The move from product leader to VP or CPO can be challenging. It takes a whole new set of skills to succeed at the next level, and you may be the first person at your company to hold this seat at the executive table.

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Product Thinking is the newsletter of Product Institute, Inc. and Melissa Perri.

Product Thinking Newsletter by Melissa Perri

All things Product Management

Subscribe to this newsletter if you are a product manager or product leader interested in leveling up your strategy, process, and insights into technology. I send out emails once a week on Wednesdays.

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