Square's Product Editors: A Fresh Perspective on Product Development

Square, a leading payments company, has taken a unique approach to product management, referring to their product team as "Product Editors" and emphasizing the importance of "product editing." This article explores the concept behind Square's approach and its potential implications for the tech industry.

• Square's "Product Editors" focus on delivering cohesive experiences, prioritizing product quality over speed.
• This approach draws inspiration from the editorial process in literature, where editors curate and shape content for optimal impact.
• The article argues that traditional product management often prioritizes schedules and milestones over product quality, leading to less compelling products.

The Challenge of Product Management in Tech

The article highlights the difficulties of traditional product management in tech. It points out that "product managers," "program managers," and "project managers" often struggle with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. The lack of clear direction can lead to a focus on administrative tasks and project timelines, potentially hindering product quality.

Jack Dorsey's Vision of Product Editors

The article emphasizes Jack Dorsey's view of product leadership as "editing." He describes his role as CEO as an editor, responsible for curating ideas, shaping the team, and ensuring a cohesive vision. He believes that every leader in a company should embrace this editorial mindset.

• Dorsey's philosophy aligns with Square's approach of viewing product management as a creative and editorial process.
• This approach promotes a focus on product quality, consistency, and a clear vision for the product's development.

The Power of Product Editing

The article explores the analogy between "product editing" and the literary editing process. It suggests that just as editors curate and shape stories, product editors must carefully select features and prioritize user experience for a cohesive and engaging product.

• Just as a good editor removes extraneous elements to enhance a story, product editors should eliminate features that detract from the core product experience.
• This approach helps ensure that products are not cluttered with unnecessary features and maintain a clear and user-friendly design.

Implications for the Tech Industry

The article suggests that Square's approach to product management could influence the tech industry's future. It argues that a greater focus on "product editing" would lead to more cohesive, user-centric products.

• By prioritizing product quality and user experience, companies can create products that stand out from the competition and resonate with their target audience.
• This shift in focus could enhance the overall product development process and contribute to a more sustainable and meaningful tech landscape.

The Future of Product Development

The article concludes by advocating for a wider adoption of the "product editing" approach in the tech industry. This shift in perspective could foster a greater emphasis on creating products that deliver cohesive experiences and elevate user satisfaction.

• This approach could be particularly beneficial for companies struggling with product development challenges, such as feature bloat or inconsistent user experience.
• By embracing the principles of "product editing," tech companies can create products that are not only innovative but also user-friendly, cohesive, and truly resonate with their target audience.