Escaping the Build Trap
01_ABSTRACT_SYNOPSIS
02_INDEX_NODES
- Shift from output to outcome-driven thinkingP.042
- Build a product-led organizationP.084
- Effective product strategy and visionP.126
- Product operations and processesP.168
03_FREQUENTLY_ASKED_QUESTIONS
What is the "build trap"?
The build trap is when organizations become focused on shipping features and outputs rather than achieving outcomes and delivering value. Teams measure success by what they ship rather than the problems they solve or value they create for customers and the business.
How do you escape the build trap?
Melissa Perri outlines a transformation from output-focused to outcome-focused product development. This includes adopting product-led strategy, empowering product teams, implementing continuous discovery, and measuring success by customer and business outcomes rather than feature delivery.
Is this book practical or theoretical?
It's both. Perri provides practical frameworks like the Product Kata and organizational patterns while also explaining the "why" behind product-led transformation. The book is especially valuable for organizations transitioning from project-based to product-based operating models.
Who should read Escaping the Build Trap?
This book is essential for product leaders trying to transform organizations, executives sponsoring product transformations, and individual PMs who want to understand why their organizations struggle with product thinking. It's particularly relevant for companies moving from services to products or from waterfall to agile.
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