digital transformation, product approach, product organizations, Romain Delassus, digital services, robust services, sustainable products, organizational change ## Introduction In the ever-evolving landscape of digital transformation, the concept of a 'product approach' has often been touted as the cornerstone of success in developing effective digital services. However, Romain Delassus, a seasoned observer and participant in these transformations over the past decade, presents a compelling argument: it’s not the product approach that matters, but the organizations behind these products. In his thought-provoking article, “School of Product 2025 - L’approche produit n'existe pas, seules comptent les organisations produit,” Delassus highlights a critical truth that many organizations overlook. Despite having the right skills and motivation at the management level, countless initiatives fail to deliver digital services that are genuinely useful, robust, and sustainable. This article delves into Delassus's insights and explores why the focus should shift towards nurturing product organizations. ## Understanding the Product Approach To appreciate Delassus's perspective, we must first understand what is meant by a 'product approach.' This methodology emphasizes creating products that meet user needs through iterative development, customer feedback, and continuous improvement. The goal is to deliver services that not only meet immediate demands but also adapt to changing market conditions and user expectations. While this approach is essential, it can only thrive within a supportive organizational framework. The effectiveness of a product approach is contingent upon the capabilities of the organization, including its culture, structure, communication, and decision-making processes. ## The Role of Organizations in Digital Transformation ### The Pitfalls of Misalignment One of the primary reasons why digital transformations fail is the misalignment between the product approach and the organizational structure. When organizations adopt a product mindset without simultaneously cultivating a conducive environment, they risk implementing processes that are superficial and ineffective. For instance, teams may engage in agile methodologies without understanding the underlying principles of collaboration and adaptability that make those methodologies successful. Delassus points out that it is not uncommon for organizations to possess the right tools and frameworks but lack the necessary cultural alignment to leverage them fully. Therefore, the question arises: how can organizations bridge this gap? ### Building a Product-Centric Culture A crucial step in ensuring the success of digital transformation initiatives is fostering a product-centric culture. This involves instilling values that prioritize customer empathy, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration. Organizations must encourage their teams to think like product owners, empathizing with users and actively seeking feedback to refine their offerings. Training programs and workshops can play a vital role in this endeavor. By equipping employees with the skills and mindset necessary to embrace the product approach, organizations can harness the full potential of their teams. Moreover, incorporating regular retrospectives and feedback loops will help maintain a focus on continual improvement and adaptability. ### Empowering Cross-Functional Teams Another significant aspect of successful product organizations is the establishment of cross-functional teams. These teams, composed of members from various disciplines—such as development, design, marketing, and customer support—bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation, and effective problem-solving, allowing organizations to develop digital services that are not only robust but also aligned with user needs. Delassus emphasizes that empowering these teams involves giving them the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their products. When team members feel responsible for their work, they are more likely to invest the necessary effort and creativity to produce exceptional results. ## The Importance of Sustainable Practices ### Prioritizing Longevity Over Short-Term Gains In an age where rapid deployment often takes precedence over sustainability, organizations must prioritize creating digital services that stand the test of time. Delassus insists that the focus should not solely be on immediate results but also on the long-term viability of products. This means investing in robust infrastructure, quality assurance, and ongoing maintenance. Sustainability should be a core principle woven into the fabric of product organizations. By adopting practices that promote longevity, organizations can ensure that their digital services remain relevant and effective in the face of evolving user needs and technological advancements. ### Measuring Success Beyond Metrics To truly assess the success of digital transformation efforts, organizations need to redefine their metrics of success. While traditional KPIs such as user acquisition and engagement rates are important, they do not provide a comprehensive view of a product's impact. Organizations should also consider factors like user satisfaction, retention rates, and the overall value delivered to customers. Delassus advocates for a balanced approach to measurement, combining quantitative metrics with qualitative feedback. This holistic perspective allows organizations to gain deeper insights into their products and make informed decisions for future iterations. ## Conclusion Romain Delassus's insights in “School of Product 2025” serve as a wake-up call for organizations navigating the complexities of digital transformation. While the product approach is undoubtedly important, it is the organization behind it that ultimately determines success. By fostering a product-centric culture, empowering cross-functional teams, and prioritizing sustainability, organizations can unlock the true potential of their digital services. As we move into the future, it is imperative for organizations to shift their focus from merely adopting a product approach to cultivating robust product organizations. This transformation will not only enhance their ability to deliver effective digital services but also ensure they remain competitive in an ever-changing landscape. In the end, it is the strength of the organization that will define the success of its products. Source: https://blog.octo.com/school-of-product-2025-l'approche-produit-n'existe-pas-seules-comptent-les-organisations-produit.