Hello and Welcome!
My name is Norma.
I'm thrilled to connect with you. I'm a seasoned product manager and engineering leader based in the vibrant tech hub of Berlin, Germany. With over 12 years of rich and diverse experience spanning both small startups and large-scale enterprises, I've cultivated a deep passion for crafting products that resonate with users on a global scale.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of spearheading the development and launch of both software and hardware products, each time driven by a relentless commitment to convenience, accessibility, and usability. Whether it's optimizing user interfaces for seamless interaction or engineering innovative solutions to address real-world challenges, I thrive on the dynamic interplay between technology and human experience.
In every endeavor, my guiding principle remains unwavering: to create products that not only meet the needs of today but also anticipate the desires of tomorrow. It's this forward-thinking approach that drives me to push boundaries, challenge norms, and unlock new possibilities in every project I undertake.
Leadership
I am steadfast in my commitment to nurturing and safeguarding the well-being of my teams, recognizing their pivotal role in fostering enduring customer relationships. For me, the team transcends mere facilitation in reaching a product; rather, they epitomize the product itself. It is through their collective efforts, expertise, and dedication that we deliver unparalleled value to our clientele.
In essence, my philosophy revolves around cultivating a culture of excellence wherein the team's prosperity directly correlates with the company's success. Together, we navigate the intricacies of innovation, striving for excellence in every endeavor.
Prioritization
Numerous frameworks exist to aid in prioritizing and refining iteration strategies, among them RICE, Kano, and Cost of Delay. Personally, I align with the Kano model, which is grounded in comprehensive qualitative and quantitative user research. However, paramount to success is the seamless integration of engineers and designers at critical junctures, coupled with strategic planning to ensure ample technological adaptability for future product iterations. Thus, I advocate for the consolidation of engineering and product functions within a unified organizational unit, fostering synergy and cohesion in product development efforts.
GTM Strategy
The determination of a go-to-market plan is heavily influenced by the nature of the products themselves. I staunchly advocate for prioritizing user-centricity over mere adherence to use cases. While considerable emphasis is often placed on crafting a robust value proposition, it's imperative not to overlook the underlying value systems of the target audience, as neglecting this aspect can lead to misalignment in sales, marketing, and design strategies. Furthermore, the ongoing evolution of these value systems necessitates a structured approach to map and monitor them throughout the product life cycle. To this end, I employ specific methodologies to ensure that our strategies remain attuned to the dynamic landscape of user values.
Product Discovery
Many companies tend to swiftly transition into execution mode, often without revisiting their strategies, resulting in the hasty accumulation of technical debt and a rapid expansion of the product landscape without corresponding adjustments to go-to-market (GTM) strategies. While expedited delivery is undoubtedly crucial, a deeper understanding of the core problem addressed by the product holds even greater significance. This understanding must be continuously refined throughout the product life cycle. To address this, I have tailored delivery frameworks to seamlessly integrate continuous product discovery activities.
Ideation Facilitation
I advocate for structured, periodic discussions that convene all stakeholders around a single table, employing meticulously prepared facilitation techniques to foster a culture of collaborative ideation and innovation. Recognizing the inherent value of diverse perspectives, coupled with proficiency in a range of facilitation methodologies, I adeptly facilitate these sessions to generate actionable insights for product and engineering roadmaps, go-to-market (GTM) strategies, marketing plans, and sales collateral.
UX / UI
I have consistently been engaged in the development of UX and UI concepts, extending beyond software products to encompass hardware in recent times. Central to both domains is the fundamental belief that product stickiness hinges on convenience. Across B2B and B2C landscapes, convenience emerges as the paramount user need. Furthermore, the usability of a product profoundly influences its convenience, thereby underscoring the principle that form follows usability.