When thinking about software improvements and features, success often hinges on the ability to ask the right questions and probe enough to understand the answers you get. As a software developer, asking insightful questions to a product manager or an executive is crucial for creating successful and impactful features.
The next time you start on a new feature implementation, don’t hesitate to ask, and ask wisely.
What Problem Are You Trying to Solve?
The foundation of any successful software development project lies first and foremost in understanding the problem. Begin by asking your stakeholders (product managers, project managers, or executives) to articulate the problem they want to solve. This question helps set the stage for a clear and focused development process.
What Would Success Look Like?
Before diving into the details and coding, it’s essential to define what success means for the new feature. Ask your stakeholders to describe the desired outcomes and functionalities and most importantly, whether there is a scaled down version (a minimum viable product) that could be created faster to gauge customer feedback. This question not only clarifies expectations but also helps in crafting a shared vision for the project.
What Metrics Do You Want to Track?
Metrics measure the success of any software project. Inquire about the key performance indicators (KPIs) your stakeholders want to track. Understanding the metrics early on enables you to design your code with these measurements in mind.
“Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): The Complete Guide“
What Are Your Expectations for the End Product?
Get a detailed picture of what your stakeholders envision for the end product, both visually and functionally. Are there specific user experiences they are expecting? Any design elements they have in mind? Do you need to work with a designer to create new screens or components to help with the development process?