How to Ace Your Microsoft PM Interview: Discussing a PM Discussion Board

## Introduction

In Product Management interviews, especially at tech giants like Microsoft, candidates are often asked to discuss ideas and strategies around actual products and features. Such questions can include a broad range of topics, from improving existing features to conceptualizing new ones. This section of the blog aims to arm you with the knowledge to tackle a question about creating or improving a PM discussion board at Microsoft.

## A Strategic Approach

By focusing on the techniques recommended in ‘Decode and Conquer: Answers to Product Management Interviews,’ this post will provide a strategic approach to showcase your product thinking and problem-solving skills.

## Detailed Guide on Framework Application

### Choosing the Right Framework

The AARM Method™ from ‘Decode and Conquer,’ which stands for Analyze, Approach, Recommend, and Monitor, is highly effective for these types of discussion questions.

### Step-by-Step Framework Application

When discussing the ideation or improvement of a PM discussion board for Microsoft, follow these steps:

**1. Analyze:** Analyze the current state of discussion boards and identify what Microsoft’s goals would be in revamping or introducing one.

**2. Approach:** Take a structured approach in formulating your recommendation. Think about the user personas, pain points, and technical feasibility.

**3. Recommend:** Recommend actionable solutions. For instance, propose features like topic tagging for better searchability or gamification to increase engagement.

**4. Monitor:** Design metrics to monitor the success of the discussion board, such as active user count, number of posts, and engagement levels.

### Hypothetical Examples

Offer an example such as the implementation of AI to suggest relevant content to users, which in a test environment increased user time spent on the board by 25%.

### Facts Checks and Approximations

Support your recommendations with factual data, like citing Microsoft’s active user base where possible. If exact data isn’t available, apply logical approximations and explain your reasoning.

### Communication Tips

Maintain clarity and focus in your communication, backing up your strategies with clear rationales. Ensure that you address the ‘Why’ behind each of your recommendations.

## Conclusion

Discussing the development of a PM discussion board allows you to demonstrate your understanding of Microsoft’s ecosystem and your ability to drive product decisions. Rely on frameworks like the AARM Method™ to articulate a thoughtful, structured response. As you prepare for your interviews, practice these frameworks to refine your skills and increase your confidence in facing even the most complex product challenges.