What would be your advice or go to resources for a PM to build one critical thinking skills?
See question: “What are good OKRs for product management?” for a general introduction to the topic.
To achieve high level of critical thinking, and remove many biases, it is particularly important to adopt strict scientific methodologies. Observe, formulate questions, make hypotheses, experiment and analyse data, formulates and communicate conclusions, and finally iterate.
See question: “How do you approach setting crisp KPIs and targets for Engine features and linking them to your topline metrics?” for my step by step process for realistic OKRs.
To expand your critical thinking, stay curious, and ask lots of questions. Early on you might need to focus on your specific area or role to ensure you are driving value for it - go deep so that you are a true expert on it.
As you build expertise in that area, look at other areas of the product and overall business / strategy. The more you learn, the better you’ll be at connecting ideas, problems, and solutions across the product and organization.
As you do this, be intentional about defining your personal framework for critical thinking and what works for you. You’ll be more consistent and can fall back on a known process when you are facing novel challenges.
One can build critical thinking on the job by analyzing data, balancing customer and business needs, and seeking feedback on your work. You should also complement this with external learning through product communities, case studies, and product critiques to expose yourself to diverse perspectives.
On-the-Job Learning
Analyze data critically: You should regularly review product and business data. Ask yourself questions like "What does this data actually tell me?" and "What could explain these trends?" to build a habit of deeper analysis.
Understand user & business needs holistically: Balance customer feedback, business goals, and market context. One should practice asking "why" multiple times to uncover the root cause of needs or issues.
Seek feedback: Request 360-degree feedback on your work. Focus on understanding perspectives from engineering, design, marketing, and leadership to refine your critical thinking.
External Learning
Engage with communities: You could participate in product forums and communities. Discuss product decisions or case studies with peers to expose yourself to diverse viewpoints.
Review case studies: You could also dive into publicly available case studies or teardown analyses of successful (or failed) products. Reflect on what decisions were made, why, and their impact.
Product critiques: You could also regularly evaluate products around you by yourself or with your work peers or friends. Consider product's value propositions, user experience, and market positioning. Practice thinking about "what works," "what doesn't," and "what could be improved."
Suggested Resources
Podcasts or blogs from thought leaders like Lenny Rachitsky or Marty Cagan.
Online courses or workshops on product strategy and critical thinking (e.g., Reforge).
Top Product Management Mentors
