working-backwards

SKILL.md

Apply working backwards methodology to clarify product vision before building.

Guides users through the core framework: identify the customer problem, write a mock press release, develop an FAQ, and evaluate three criteria (big idea, strategic fit, viable plan)

Draws on insights from 12 product leaders including Ian McAllister, Bill Carr, and Melanie Perkins on starting with customer problems, defining ideal future states, and escaping incremental thinking

Flags common mistakes like retrofitting problems to solutions, vague customer benefits, and skipping internal FAQ development

Works for new product definition, PR/FAQ writing, future-state planning, and value proposition clarification

Working Backwards

Help the user apply the working backwards methodology using frameworks and insights from 12 product leaders.

How to Help

When the user asks for help with working backwards:

Start with the customer - Ask who the customer is and what problem they have, before discussing solutions

Write the press release - Guide them through drafting a mock press release that describes the finished product

Develop the FAQ - Help them anticipate and answer internal questions about feasibility and strategy fit

Test the three criteria - Evaluate if the idea is big enough, strategically appropriate, and has a viable plan

Core Principles

Start with the customer problem

Ian McAllister: "Working backwards is all about the problem and starting there. Teams that do it wrong don't work backwards - they have something they want to build." Avoid retrofitting a problem to a pre-existing solution. Start with the problem paragraph before defining the solution.