Preface

In the last few years, platform business models have revolutionized various industries, such as retail, media, and travel. With the rise of platforms and increased use of technology, consumers nowadays want multiple options available digitally. They like to search, explore, compare, and choose between different options within a single uninterrupted user experience. Providing such an experience is difficult and indeed almost impossible using linear models. Hence, more and more businesses will have to adapt the platform-first approach. There is a shift needed at all levels and in every function of an organization. Right from strategy to execution, everyone will have to adopt the platform way of thinking.

Some organizations have already started moving in this direction. Executives have begun realizing the need and benefits of the platform. However, the challenge is building the right platform strategy and the execution of that strategy. One function of the organization that is most important in creating this strategy and helping in its execution is product management. Ironically, this is one function that is far from grasping the importance of platforms and of building the right strategy for them. Product managers still think in terms of linear products and forget to build the strategy and roadmaps that cater to the platform's needs.

This book will address this critical pillar of platform development, that is, product management. It will cover the difference between traditional product management and product management for platforms while explaining the importance and benefits of the platform. It will help and guide business executives and product managers in building the right platform strategy, defining the MVP, and ongoing prioritization. This book will also cover the steps and guidelines for organizations and especially product managers when transitioning from linear products to platforms. It will help them in the journey of this transformation. This book will answer all the essential questions of product management for building successful and scalable platforms.