Five rules for better decision-making in product development

In a DOU article, Oleksandr Paladiy, Product Director at Railsware, shared the main evaluation models, step-by-step instructions, and basic rules to help navigate the challenges that arise during product development. Here are five key rules that will help you avoid pitfalls and make better decisions:

Rule #1: Focus on the end result. When making decisions, always keep the end goal in mind. Whether you are developing a business strategy, product, or application, your plan should be focused on achieving the desired result.

Rule #2: Avoid making hasty decisions. Quick decisions can often lead to unaccounted-for risks and potential losses. Take your time to analyze the consequences of your choice and ensure long-term success.

Rule #3: Estimate the cost of your choice. Accurately estimate the resources needed to make decisions. Think about questions such as: How many people are needed? What is the financial cost? How long will it take to see the first results? This careful assessment will help you make an informed choice.

Rule #4: Use metrics wisely. Metrics are crucial for tracking progress and achieving goals. Different teams focus on different metrics, choose the right metrics to avoid over-analysis that can lead to paralyzing decision-making.

Rule #5: Prioritize and evaluate carefully. There are countless evaluation models available, each suited to different team sizes, product features, and personal preferences. Use these models to systematically evaluate and prioritize options, making your decision-making process easier and more efficient.

In summary, by following these rules and using a systematic approach, you can master and significantly improve the decision-making process during product development. When you have clear guidelines and the ability to prioritize, making informed decisions becomes easier and more efficient.

You can read more about Oleksandr Paladiy’s advice here.