A product owner (PO) has a fixed role in the Scrum process. The PO defines the next important feature that should be implemented in the product teams and translates businesses requirements of the current projects into actionable stories. As a Product Owner, I speak to the internal and external stakeholders and prioritize the product backlog.
Defining a Product Vision
A product owner translates business requirements of the projects into actionable stories. clarifying the vision of the project and conveying their individual meaning is essential for the success of the project. This vision forms the basis for motivating the team. This vision also provides the customers with the incentive to work towards this goal.
As the product owner of the Experience Cloud Solutions Team, I also focus on creating a more professional, and comprehensive digital experiences that engages audiences across all touchpoints--online, mobile, app, and elsewhere. This is our New Digital Brand Experience vision which leverages the Adobe Experience Cloud.
Along with that, based on the fact that Helmut has been a part of the Allianz Group for over 20 years and has extensive knowledge of Allianz Systems and Processes, it would be appropriate to say that he is also involved in a lot of additional projects and tasks.
How does a day start and what does it look like?
My day usually begins between 0800 and 0830. I starts the computer while preparing coffee and check the emails and the tasks for the day with a cup of coffee.
The second important task of the day is the daily team stand-up. Here we check progress on tasks, align on topics and identify blockers to ensure a focused and efficient progress for everyone.
What are you currently working on?
Based on the fact that Adobe Experience Cloud consist of a lot of integrated solution, we are constantly working on a broad range of tasks.
However, one actual thing I like to mention is the Digital Analytics System that we are establishing in BMP.
It's a fast and standard implementation of a journey tracking model for BMP tribes.
A common global concept to reach comparable KPIs and reports. Making global product ready for OE rollouts, accelerate time to market to setup OneMarketing / Analytics which saves cost for new journeys and provide high use of reusability.
What does your interaction with others look
As a PO, you need to interact with many different people. First is to connect with the Operating Entities and Customers to understand the business needs. Next important connection is with Adobe to influence the product development based on our business needs. Then there is the connection with Management, Finance, other Product Owners, and Departments to create a valid product allignment with the overall strategy.
What kind of tools and methods does a Product owner use?
I work with the classic agile scrum method in cross located teams in India and Germany. The data driven business of oneMarketing is largely based on the Adobe Experience Cloud Solutions. This means programs like Adobe Analytics, Target and so on become the go to.
What do you like best about your job?
The best part of the job is the access to a modern and exiting technology and the chance to drive the future technologies in the area of data driven digital business. There is always a new challenge in such an international environment.
How has the switch to remote working been in your experience?
Compared to other Operating Entities and department, my team is working from different locations during Covid. During this digital times we have established regular ceremonies like virtual coffees or team events to bridge the gap.
Nevertheless, the colleagues are always missed. The short coffee break chats or the lunch together with the colleges onside are always remembered fondly. And the “corridor radio” only works to a limited extent
Helmut shares with us some insights that you should know if you want to become a Product Owner like him:
1. Having a combination of Business and Technical knowledge is an advantage for a Product Owner.
2. A good network in the organization and with stakeholders can be very helpful.
3. Analytical skills are important to understand the needs of the customer. Strategic thinking is essential to create an aligned Product Vision.
4. A product owner should always be curious and ask the “why” to the business units and “how” to the development team.
5. You need to have good communications with everyone because in many situations, a Product Owner has to refuse proposals and it is important that your intention is not misunderstood.
All of these factors are important for creating successful, sustainable and smart Data driven Business Models where we can achieve what we set out to achieve and retain customer.
Thank you very much Helmut for giving us your time for sharing with us how your day looks like in such details. Your tips were extremely insightful not just for someone who wants to become a Product owner but for everyone who wants to get into a similar role. We hope our readers enjoyed reading about your work as well!