Topic Definitions #
Define Scope
Scope Creep
Backlog
Change Control Board
What Is a Technical Product Vision? #
Technical Product Vision is a structured technical overview that describes how a product concept will be implemented within a specific project. It translates previously gathered functional and non-functional requirements, along with the business strategy, into a concrete technical solution. This vision plays a critical role in connecting strategy and execution.
Where Is Technical Product Vision Used?
The Technical Product Vision is applicable across various types of projects, including:
Each domain uses the vision as a foundation for future design and development efforts.
At the conceptual phase (idea stage), the Technical Product Vision is not a detailed project plan, but rather a preliminary technical direction — outlining possible implementation principles, acceptable technologies, key constraints, and general guidelines.
- A strong technical product vision should:
- Align with the company’s overall business strategy;
- Guide technical teams in architectural decisions;
- Ensure scalability, security, and maintainability;
- Encourage innovation and adaptability;
- Provide a clear path for future growth.
Key Components of a Strong Technical Product Vision
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Product Goals and Business Alignment #
Define what the product aims to achieve and how it supports the company's mission. Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) that will measure success.
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Technology Stack and Architecture #
Choose the right technologies, frameworks, and tools. Define the system architecture, considering scalability, security, and integration needs.
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User Experience and Performance #
Ensure the technical vision supports a seamless user experience. Optimize system performance and reliability.
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Scalability and Maintainabilityptions #
Plan for future growth with modular and scalable architectures. Implement best practices for maintainable code and efficient deployment processes.
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Security and Compliance #
Address data protection, authentication, and security measures. Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
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Innovation and Adaptability #
Encourage the adoption of emerging technologies. Plan for future enhancements and iterations.
Objectives of the Technical Product Vision #
Define the Preliminary Solution Architecture
- For software: A high-level view of the architecture — monolithic, microservices-based, cloud-native, etc.
- For engineering projects: A block diagram of functional zones and draft spatial planning concepts.
- For physical products: A conceptual layout of key components and interfaces.
Identify the Potential Technology Platform
- For IT: Proposed programming languages, frameworks, and environments (with possible alternatives).
- For construction: Preliminary selection of technologies and materials (e.g., frame-based or monolithic structures).
- For equipment: Manufacturing processes, components, and production approaches.
Align the Interaction of Key Components
- At the conceptual level, this includes compatibility principles, data exchange scenarios, and external system requirements.
Define Principles for Scalability, Security, and Quality
- This includes early-stage requirements and benchmarks, such as availability, data protection, and maintainability.
Establish a Foundation for Project Decomposition
- Not in the form of a detailed backlog, but as high-level functional units (e.g., EPICs or Work Packages) that relate to future project phases.
Components of the Technical Product Vision #
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Components of the Technical Product Vision
This is not the final architecture, but rather a set of possible implementation options and their analysis. For example: a cloud-based platform vs. on-premise.
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Preliminary Technological Approach
A list of acceptable solutions based on project goals, timelines, and available resources. Possible technologies and standards are considered, but not yet finalized.
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Integration and Interface Options
Define future integration zones and key constraints for system interaction.
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General Principles for Quality, Security, and Scalability
Outline approaches for validation, system resilience, and adaptability in later development stages.
Technical Vision Documentation (at the Idea Phase) #
At the conceptual stage of a project (before design and implementation), only one preliminary document is prepared, depending on the project type:
Possible Components:
Flowcharts and interaction diagrams
Tables of assumptions and constraints
Option and risk maps
Sketch components and architectural layers
Alignment and Responsibility #
At the conceptual phase, the following participants are typically involved:
Steps to Develop a Technical Product Vision #
Step 1: Understand Business Objectives and Market Needs
- Before defining the technical vision, it is essential to understand business goals and market conditions. Conduct research to identify:
Customer pain points and expectations
Competitor technology strategies
Industry trends and innovations
Step 2: Collaborate with Key Stakeholders
- Effective technical vision development requires input from:
Product Managers – to ensure alignment with business goals
Engineering Teams – to assess feasibility and implementation
UX/UI Designers – to integrate user experience considerations
Executives & Investors – to secure strategic support
Step 3: Define Technical Principles and Architecture
- Establish core technical principles that will guide development, such as:
API-first development
Microservices vs. monolithic architecture
Cloud vs. on-premises deployment
Data security and encryption standards
Step 4: Choose the Right Technology Stack
- Select technologies based on:
Scalability and performance
Team expertise and availability
Long-term maintainability
Cost efficiency
Step 5: Develop a Roadmap with Milestones
- Break down the technical vision into:
Short-term goals (next 3-6 months)
Mid-term goals (6-12 months)
Long-term objectives (beyond 12 months)
Step 6: Ensure Continuous Review and Adaptation
- Technology evolves rapidly, so a technical product vision should be:
Reviewed regularly (quarterly or bi-annually)
Adjusted based on market trends, customer feedback, and new technological advancements
A well-crafted technical product vision serves as a guiding force for product development, ensuring that engineering efforts align with business objectives and market needs. By incorporating scalability, security, innovation, and adaptability into the vision, companies can build successful, future-proof products. Developing a strong technical vision is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process that requires collaboration, regular reviews, and continuous improvements.
