How to Kill a Feature Like a FAANG Product Manager

## Introduction

In the fast-paced world of product development, making tough decisions is inevitable. One such decision is the potential need to kill a feature. This blog post serves as a guide for aspiring FAANG product managers on how to navigate the complex discussion around discontinuing a feature, drawing on insights from ‘Decode and Conquer: Answers to Product Management Interviews.’ We will dissect a framework for answering such questions thoroughly and with confidence.

## Detailed Guide on Framework Application

To adeptly discuss the elimination of a feature, we’ll utilize the CIRCLES Method™, a systematic approach to crafting thorough and well-reasoned answers to product-related questions.

### Step-by-step guide on how to apply the frameworks

1. **Comprehend the Situation:** Clearly understand why the question is being asked and what context is provided. Be aware of any data points. If none are available, inquire or use a past project to frame your answer.
2. **Identify the Goals:** Identify the goals of the feature removal—improving user experience, cost reduction, shifting focus, etc.
3. **Review the Alternatives:** Consider alternatives to removing the feature, such as modifying or combining it with others.
4. **Communicate the Criteria:** Establish criteria for decision making, be it data-driven (e.g., low usage metrics) or strategic (e.g., not aligned with the product vision).
5. **Listen to Customers:** Factor in customer feedback—how will this affect their experience and how might they react?
6. **Explain the Benefits:** Highlight the positive outcomes of removing the feature, both for customers and the business.
7. **Summarize Your Recommendation:** Conclude your assessment with a recommendation to proceed with removal, backed by your analysis.

## Hypothetical examples to demonstrate the frameworks

Leveraging a past experience at a software company, where data analysis showed that a feature was used by less than 1% of users, invoked confusion, and had a high cost of maintenance. After exploring alternatives, we determined that by removing the feature, we could reallocate resources to develop new functionality that addressed a more significant customer need.

## Facts checks

Ensure to validate your statements with data or well-reasoned assumptions. If you don’t have access to the exact data, extrapolate from known metrics or industry benchmarks to craft a believable narrative.

## Tips on how to communicate effectively during the interview

* **Use data:** Back your decision with relevant data to show an evidence-based approach.
* **Customer-centric:** Keep customer impact front and center, showcasing empathy in product management.
* **Consider trade-offs:** Discuss what trade-offs were made and why the benefits outweigh them.
* **Clarity and conciseness:** Be clear and to the point. Avoid unnecessary jargon and complexity.
* **Stay calm:** Such questions can be sensitive; maintain composure and explain your rationale with balance.

## Conclusion

To wrap up, the decision to kill a feature requires a fine balance between qualitative feedback and quantitative data. Using the CIRCLES Method™ provides a structured way to approach this challenge. Transparently communicating your process and demonstrating a clear customer and business understanding will indicate your capacity as an effective product manager. Remember, practice leads to perfection, and this framework is a tool to refine your decision-making skills for any product dilemma, including that of a FAANG PM role.