Introduction

Welcome to Towards A Better Product. I am writing Towards A Better Product to improve my own capabilities as a product manager. In the process, I hope to be able to take some others along the journey with me. My process for improving my PM capabilities is based roughly on the concepts elucidated in the book Talent Is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers from Everybody Else:
1. Skill-specific Practice
I am trying to learn how to be a better coach. By explaining Product Manager concepts on this blog, I am practicing explaining them to the people who work for me.
2. Simulations
I will be conducting business cases on-line and making recommendations as to what I would do if I managed a particular business. My written record of this will help me to compare and contrast my decisions and decision-making process to the reality of the business world.
3. Process Improvement
I will be explaining the ways that I manage my product lines / business. By doing so to become a better coach, I also hope to gain feedback on better ways of doing my job so that I am continuously improving my best practices.

Who are you?
My name is Jamie and I am a Product Manager at a technology company. I have about 10 years of experience. Before becoming a Product Manager, I started my career as an Assistant Brand Manager at Procter and Gamble - a related position, but more focused on product delivery versus product design (which is, frankly, more my passion). I manage one of my company's largest businesses and lead a team of between 10 and 20 PMs and Program Manager.

Who do you work for?
Although I am certain that some quick sleuthing will uncover my identity and that of my employer, I am going to keep this information confidential, at least at the beginning, to make certain that in no way I compromise my business.