Time to Realign, Readjust and Review

I’ve now been in this state of transition for 18 weeks. This is much longer than I thought I’d be here. Really. I intended to visit, not relocate. (And, yes, I have been busy with project work, classes and the like.) Along the way I’ve gotten all kinds of advice, some good and other, well, not so good. But, one thing that I am constantly asked is “What are your target companies? And, have you networked your way into them?

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Sorry for the Break

Okay,

So blogging takes effort. Like so many other things in life. I know I have been bad, but my mind is back and ready to work. Take your pick for my absence from the following list:

1. Illness – Laryngitis kills the ability to write a blog, really.
2. Computer glitches - I can’t make my backup program work right now, and everything has slowed down because of it
3. (self-pity) Party – It was a great party, small invitation list, but loads of games and great beverages. You were all missed
4. Lack of developed ideas – I had ideas, loads of them, which I was going to write. But, I couldn’t develop any into blogs. As soon as I did, I got sidetracked onto the next idea.

So, now that you can make your selection from the list above, and I provided a brief laugh in your day, I’ll be back shortly.

And, thanks for your patience and support.

Why is Your Roadmap On Your Web Site?

I had an interesting discussion last week with a startup. I really think this group has a chance of making it. But, they had a huge flaw, which of course being on the outside, I had to point out.

Technology startup companies have a unique need with their roadmaps, they need to communicate to their investors not only their application plans, but also demonstrate their competence. At the same time, they need to reassure their customers, typically, alpha and beta levels, about their commitment to growth.

But, you don’t need to put this information out publicly – and definitely not on your Web site!

Roadmaps have their place. In my past I have developed more than my fair share of them, as have almost every product manager I know. And, the prevailing wisdom seems to be to develop different roadmaps for different audiences. I mean, you invested time in developing the personas you serve, use that time and information wisely.

So, looking in from the outside, here is one more voice advocating smart use of roadmaps. Go ahead and put out a statement of direction, let the world know what you intend to do and how you intend to grow your product. But, keep the IP, the value of your company, behind closed doors!

And, if you don’t, don’t be surprised when the competition beats you to the release.