Data-driven, iterative approaches aren’t just for space missions; they’re vital tools that can significantly improve product success.
Taking a leaf out of ISRO – Indian Space Research Organization‘s playbook, their Chandrayaan missions have demonstrated that informed iteration can yield incredible success. From a 3400-orbit MVP in Chandrayaan-1 to a 100% landing success rate in Chandrayaan-3, it’s clear that iterative improvements guided by metrics can significantly improve outcomes.
- Chandrayaan-1 – MVP Validation
ISRO’s first moon mission was an MVP, with the spacecraft making 3400 orbits to validate its durability.
For Product Managers: Translate this into launching MVPs with clear KPIs. For instance, if 70% of beta testers frequently use a feature, you’ve got validation.
- Chandrayaan-2 – Data-Driven Focus
Chandrayaan-2 had a high mission success rate but pinpointed the 5% failure in landing as a crucial area for improvement.
For Product Managers: Identify critical areas for improvement through metrics. Make that your focal point if you have high user retention but low conversion rates.
- Chandrayaan-3 – Targeted Optimization
Chandrayaan-3 achieved a remarkable 100% landing success rate by majorly focusing on one key aspect (5% failure in landing Chandrayaan-2).
For Product Managers: Look at your metrics to determine where specific, targeted improvements can make a huge difference. For example, reducing a landing page’s bounce rate from 40% to 5% is a big win.
Product Managers can dramatically improve product success by adopting a data-driven, iterative approach similar to ISRO – Indian Space Research Organization’s Chandrayaan missions.
Image: My son’s assembled GSLV MK III, Chandrayaan 2 Imagimake models.