product management, digital transformation, product strategy, Romain Delassus, product organizations, digital services, organizational effectiveness, sustainable development ## Introduction In the fast-paced world of digital transformation, businesses are often caught in the whirlwind of change. For over a decade, Romain Delassus has been at the forefront of these transformations, observing both the triumphs and failures that accompany the integration of digital services. Despite the expertise and motivation from top management, many organizations struggle to deliver truly effective, robust, and sustainable digital offerings. The crux of the issue lies not in the product approach itself but in the organizational structures that support product management. In this article, we will explore the findings from the School of Product 2025, emphasizing the critical need for product organizations to succeed in today’s digital landscape. ## Understanding the Digital Transformation Landscape Digital transformation is not merely a buzzword; it represents a fundamental shift in how organizations operate and deliver value. For many companies, this transformation is seen as a pathway to innovation and growth. However, Delassus highlights a stark reality: despite significant investments and a desire for change, many initiatives fail to yield the expected results. This raises a crucial question—why do these transformations falter? ### The Role of Leadership in Digital Initiatives Leadership plays a pivotal role in the success of digital projects. Organizations often invest heavily in training and empowering their top management to spearhead change. However, without a clear understanding of how to foster a product-centric culture, these efforts may fall short. Delassus points out that many leaders still cling to traditional management practices that do not align with the agile and iterative nature required by modern digital products. ### The Importance of a Product Organization At the heart of successful digital transformation lies the concept of a product organization. Unlike a traditional approach, where products are seen as standalone entities, a product organization fosters a collaborative environment that emphasizes teamwork, cross-departmental communication, and continuous learning. This model encourages teams to focus on user needs, iterate based on feedback, and adapt to changing market conditions. #### Moving Beyond the Product Approach Delassus argues that the notion of a product approach is outdated. Instead, organizations should prioritize building frameworks that support product teams. This includes establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and processes that empower teams to make decisions autonomously. A well-structured product organization allows for agility and responsiveness, essential traits in a digital landscape where the only constant is change. ## The Components of a Successful Product Organization To cultivate an effective product organization, several key components must be in place: ### 1. Cross-Functional Teams Successful product organizations are built on the foundation of cross-functional teams that bring together diverse skill sets. These teams incorporate members from various departments—such as marketing, design, engineering, and customer support—enabling a holistic approach to product development. This diversity fosters creativity and ensures that different perspectives are considered throughout the product lifecycle. ### 2. Customer-Centric Mindset A product organization must prioritize the voice of the customer. Understanding user needs and pain points should drive decision-making at every level. By embedding customer feedback into the development process, organizations can create products that are not only functional but also resonate with users, ultimately leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty. ### 3. Emphasis on Agility In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, agility is paramount. Product organizations must adopt agile methodologies to facilitate quick iterations and pivots based on market feedback. This approach enables teams to respond to changes swiftly, reducing time-to-market and improving overall product quality. ### 4. Continuous Learning and Improvement A culture of continuous learning is essential for a thriving product organization. Encouraging experimentation, celebrating failures as learning opportunities, and investing in professional development can help teams stay ahead of the curve. By fostering an environment where teams are motivated to improve, organizations can drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge. ## Challenges in Building Product Organizations While the benefits of establishing a product organization are evident, numerous challenges can impede progress. Resistance to change, siloed departments, and a lack of alignment on goals can hinder the transformation process. Additionally, many organizations struggle to measure success beyond traditional metrics, leading to a narrow focus on outputs rather than outcomes. ### Overcoming Resistance to Change Change is often met with skepticism. To overcome resistance, leaders must communicate a compelling vision that highlights the benefits of transitioning to a product organization. Engaging employees at all levels and involving them in the transformation process can facilitate buy-in and foster a sense of ownership. ### Aligning Goals Across Departments For a product organization to thrive, alignment across departments is crucial. Leaders should establish shared objectives that unite teams and encourage collaboration. Regular communication and updates can help maintain focus and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals. ## Conclusion The School of Product 2025 presents a compelling argument for the necessity of product organizations in achieving successful digital transformation. As Romain Delassus illustrates through his extensive experience, the challenges faced by organizations are rarely due to a lack of skill or motivation among leaders but rather a failure to create the right organizational structures. By embracing the principles of cross-functional teamwork, customer-centricity, agility, and continuous improvement, organizations can cultivate environments that foster innovation and deliver sustainable, impactful digital services. In a world where the only constant is change, it’s evident that the future belongs to those who prioritize building robust product organizations. Source: https://blog.octo.com/school-of-product-2025-l'approche-produit-n'existe-pas-seules-comptent-les-organisations-produit.