The Collaboration Process
A structured approach to working together effectively
Phase 1
Discovery Kickoff
Co-Owned by PM and Tech Lead
Phase 2
Shaping the Work
Co-Owned by PM and Tech Lead
Phase 3
Delivery
Tech-led, PM-partnered
Phase 4
Retrospective & Iteration
Co-Owned by PM and Tech Lead
Phase 1: Discovery Kickoff
Goal: Understand the problem and risks before committing to building anything.
Product Manager:
- Shares real user pain + context
- Brings potential success metrics
- Partners on early tests & interviews
- Frames the problem statement
- Validates market demand
Tech Lead:
- Brainstorms feasibility constraints
- Flags unknowns or risks
- Runs spikes or quick proofs
- Suggests technical approaches
- Identifies dependencies
Output Artifacts:
- Problem Statement
- Risk Assessment
- MVP Hypothesis
- Early Validation Signals
Process Flexibility
While this process provides structure, it should be adapted to your team's specific needs and context. The key is maintaining the collaborative spirit throughout all phases, not rigidly following a prescribed workflow.