digital transformation, product management, Romain Delassus, product organizations, digital services, effective product strategy, sustainable product development ## Introduction In an era where digital transformation is not just a trend but a necessity, the importance of effective product management cannot be overstated. Romain Delassus, a seasoned observer and participant in digital evolution for over a decade, sheds light on a pivotal issue: despite significant investment and motivation from top management, many organizations are still struggling to create truly useful, robust, and sustainable digital services. This article delves into the insights provided by Delassus in his School of Product 2025 report, emphasizing the need for focusing on product organizations rather than merely product approaches. ## The Landscape of Digital Transformation The rapid pace of digital transformation has prompted organizations across various sectors to re-evaluate their strategies. Businesses are compelled to innovate continuously, delivering digital services that meet the evolving expectations of consumers. However, as Delassus observes, despite the presence of skilled personnel and enthusiastic leadership, many initiatives falter. This raises an essential question: what is the missing link that prevents organizations from achieving effective digital transformation? ### The Pitfalls of Traditional Product Approaches Historically, many organizations have relied on established product approaches, often rooted in outdated methodologies. These traditional frameworks can lead to rigid structures that fail to accommodate the dynamic nature of digital markets. Delassus argues that while these approaches may provide some level of guidance, they do not inherently foster an environment conducive to innovation and responsiveness. Relying solely on a product approach can create silos within organizations, stifling collaboration and hindering the agility necessary for successful digital services. ### Embracing Product Organizations The crux of Delassus's argument centers around the notion that it is not the product approach that matters most, but rather the organization surrounding it. A product organization is characterized by its ability to adapt, innovate, and collaborate seamlessly across functions. This holistic perspective emphasizes the integration of various departments—such as design, development, marketing, and customer service—to create a unified product vision. For an organization to thrive in the digital landscape, it must cultivate a culture that prioritizes cross-functional teamwork. This involves breaking down silos, encouraging communication, and fostering a shared understanding of goals. When individuals from diverse backgrounds come together, they can leverage their unique skills and insights, leading to more effective solutions and ultimately, more valuable digital services. ## Building a Robust Product Organization To evolve into an effective product organization, companies must implement strategic changes. Here are some key steps to consider: ### 1. Foster a Culture of Collaboration Creating a collaborative environment is paramount. Organizations should encourage employees to share ideas openly and engage in brainstorming sessions. Establishing regular cross-departmental meetings can facilitate this exchange, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. ### 2. Define Clear Roles and Responsibilities While collaboration is essential, it is equally important to have clarity in roles. Each team member should understand their responsibilities and how they contribute to the overall product vision. This clarity helps streamline processes and enhances accountability. ### 3. Invest in Continuous Learning The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and staying ahead requires a commitment to continuous learning. Organizations should invest in training programs and workshops that empower employees to enhance their skills and stay updated on industry trends. This investment not only benefits the individual but also strengthens the organization as a whole. ### 4. Leverage Data-Driven Decision Making Data plays a crucial role in shaping product strategies. Organizations should prioritize gathering and analyzing data to inform their decisions. By understanding customer behavior and preferences, teams can make informed choices that lead to the development of more relevant and effective digital services. ### 5. Embrace Agile Methodologies Agility is a cornerstone of successful product organizations. Implementing agile methodologies allows teams to respond quickly to changes in the market and adapt their strategies accordingly. This iterative approach enables organizations to test ideas, gather feedback, and refine their offerings rapidly. ## Conclusion The insights presented by Romain Delassus in the School of Product 2025 serve as a wake-up call for organizations grappling with digital transformation. As the landscape continues to shift, it becomes increasingly clear that the key to success lies not in the adoption of a specific product approach, but in the establishment of strong product organizations. By fostering collaboration, defining roles, investing in learning, leveraging data, and embracing agility, organizations can unlock the potential to create truly useful, robust, and sustainable digital services. In a world where digital services are becoming the norm, the organizations that prioritize building a cohesive product strategy will be the ones that thrive. As we move toward 2025 and beyond, let us heed Delassus's call and focus on what truly matters: the organizational framework that supports and nurtures innovative product development. Source: https://blog.octo.com/school-of-product-2025-l'approche-produit-n'existe-pas-seules-comptent-les-organisations-produit.