Product Management Then: A Command-and-Control Era

1. The Waterfall Model = Planning Obsession:
   Every detail was meticulously planned, often leading to a rigid approach that left little room for creativity and adaptation.
2. Product Manager = Project Manager = Control Freak:
   Managers sought to control as much as possible, sometimes micromanaging teams, which often stifled innovation.
3. Boss-driven culture = Mistaking Authority for Leadership:
   Being decisive was confused with being domineering. Decision-making was often top-down, and empathy or collaboration was never prioritized.

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Product Leadership Now: An Era of Empowerment

1. The Agile Model = Leading Through Empowerment:
   Modern Product Managers recognize the value of trusting and empowering their teams, allowing for greater innovation and responsiveness.
2. Outcome over Output = Building Performance Cultures & Teams:
   Focus is placed on developing a culture of excellence and collaboration. Team members are encouraged to grow, and their unique strengths are leveraged.
3. Empowerment over Management = Direction, Not Dictation:
   Instead of micromanaging, managers set clear directions and then step back, allowing teams to find their path. This promotes ownership, creativity, and efficiency.

The Path to Product Success – Choose wisely for faster development cycles, more innovative products, and a happier workforce.