The 5 Layers of Product

A meaningful product is much more than a piece of software.

Over time, a number of layers of value need to be developed for it to remain the solution of choice for the problem at hand.

Most PMs/PMMs focus on the inner layers of the product. They size the market, they build a solution, they obsess about the UI.

While it is the obvious choice to focus on starting out, limiting focus there for too long makes one miss the fact that buyers, at the end of the day, are also emotional beings.

It's not just what tools you equip them with. It's also about how you make them feel when using them.

Sure, It's important to have a rock solid foundation (inner layers). But the products that focus on their UX/CX, their brand equity and eventually, invest in developing a passionate community are the ones that last the longest.