From Data to Done: Making smarter product decisions

Many businesses are talking about being “data-driven,” but what does that really mean? For us, it’s about using reliable information to make timely, accurate decisions that move the needle on your business goals. It's not about gathering data for data's sake. It's about getting from data to a clear plan of action.

Your business is already generating revenue, but you've likely faced this common challenge: everyone has a different idea about what to do or build next. The sales team wants one feature, while operations insists on another. Without a clear process, you risk wasting time and money on the wrong things.

A straightforward, no-nonsense approach is the key.

A Better Way to Prioritise What to Build  

The first step is always to get a clear picture of your strategic goals. Whether it’s increasing revenue, improving customer retention, or entering a new market, every decision should be tied directly to these objectives.

Once you have your goals, you can start looking for the data that matters.

• Look Inward: Your existing customers are a goldmine of information. By analysing user behaviour within your product, reviewing CRM notes from your sales team, and looking at customer service logs, you can quickly identify pain points. Are customers getting stuck during onboarding? Are there recurring bugs that are hurting retention? This internal data can show you where to focus to improve what you already have.

• Look Outward: If your goal is to attract new customers, you'll need a mix of internal and external insight. User research is a powerful tool for uncovering unmet needs from existing customers and identifying new opportunities. Don’t be afraid to look at broader trends in your industry. For example, online forums and communities can often reveal what your target market is missing.

  
  

When you have a few strong candidates for new features or fixes, the next step is to test them and validate your assumptions. This simple process can save you from a costly mistake.

A Clear Path Forward  

Making the right product decisions is crucial for growth, but it can be hard to know where to begin. The process we’ve outlined comes from NPC’s extensive experience in developing and delivering product strategies across multiple industries. We’ve seen what works, and more importantly, what doesn’t.

If your business is looking at future initiatives and you feel stuck, NPC can help. A brief, no-pressure conversation is often the best first step. We'll offer an honest assessment of how you can turn your data into a clear plan for a better return on your investment.