Zachary Bolton is a product strategist with over 15 years of experience navigating the triumphs of product development. He is a partner at Other Land, a small design studio and helps B2B product leaders decide what needs to change to improve growth. Zach shares insights from his career, including his transition from advertising to founding the agency, Otherland.
He challenges traditional strategy frameworks, emphasizing the critical role of understanding customer value. The discussion explores practical strategies for aligning teams within organizations, fostering a growth-oriented culture through leadership, and providing actionable advice for designers looking to launch their practices.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Deconstructing Traditional Frameworks
- Uncovering True Customer Value
- Growth Mindset in Established Companies
- Bridging Customer Insights and Product Strategy
- Facilitating Cross-Department Collaboration
Key Takeaways
- Product strategy is about understanding unique value.
- Frameworks should serve the strategy, not hinder it.
- Customer insights are crucial for effective strategy.
- Collaboration across departments is key to success.
- Simplicity in communication enhances understanding.
- Mistakes are part of the learning process.
Referenced Resources:
- No Bullsh*t Strategy by Alex M H Smith - a.co/d/c3pkKTD
- Running Lean by Ash Maurya - a.co/d/a6BpApW
- House of Suns by Alastair Reynolds - a.co/d/17pFCB9
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:52 Zachary Bolton's Journey and Background
05:50 Understanding Product Strategy
11:45 The Complexity of Strategy
18:02 Challenges in Traditional Product Strategy
24:02 Bridging Customer Insights and Product Strategy
30:12 Facilitating Cross-Department Collaboration
36:07 Leadership and Growth Mindset
42:10 Final Thoughts and Advice for Designers
Where to find Zachary Bolton
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/zachbolton/
- Agency Website: www.otherland.studio/
Co-hosts:
Emmanuel - www.linkedin.com/in/omoleemmanuel/
IniOluwa - www.linkedin.com/in/inioluwa-abiodun/
Production by ⁠⁠www.linkedin.com/in/damilola-ilesanmi-720baa1b0/
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For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email hello@growthdesigncast.com