In India, the role of Product Managers has evolved significantly, transitioning from Project Managers to Sense-Shapers focused on user needs and disruption.
Aspiring individuals from various backgrounds were drawn to Product Management for its strategic value and versatility.
Product Managers became crucial in tech companies, handling diverse tasks from design to debugging and managing stakeholders.
However, with the rise of AI tools and automation, the relevance of Product Managers has been questioned in some circles.
AI can handle tasks like competitive analysis and generating specs, but it lacks the human touch and sense-shaping capabilities of a skilled PM.
The future of Product Management lies in combining AI automation with human-driven critical thinking, creativity, and a focus on meaningful impact.
Senseshaping, the art of aligning diverse perspectives into a coherent product vision, is highlighted as a key skill for 21st-century PMs.
Product Managers need to move beyond mere metrics and embrace the aspects of critical thinking, social responsibility, and senseshaping.
Real-world examples from companies like Swiggy and Airbnb demonstrate the importance of sense-shaping in navigating conflicting interests and driving successful product strategies.
SenseShaping involves social intelligence and emotional nuance, qualities that AI currently struggles to replicate effectively.
Ultimately, Product Managers play a unique role in creating shared visions, harmonizing diverse inputs, and driving product success through human-centered approaches.