PM mental models

Mental models are the frameworks we use to understand the world. For Product Managers, they are indispensable tools for decision-making under uncertainty. Here are the most impactful ones used at top-tier tech companies.

First Principles Thinking

Don't build something just because 'that's how Amazon does it'. Break the problem down to its fundamental truths and reconstruct the solution from the ground up. This is how true innovation happens.

The Kano Model

Distinguish between 'Must-haves', 'Performance features', and 'Delighters'. Many teams waste time optimizing Must-haves instead of building Delighters that actually move the needle on user retention.

"Innovation comes from breaking down the basic assumptions of your industry and asking: Why must it be this way?"