The Product Frameworks Compendium (35) + Free Templates
The Product Frameworks Compendium (35) + Free Templates
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Every Saturday, you get 1 actionable tip for PMs to boost your career.
In today’s free edition, I present 35 product frameworks + free templates + additional resources:
Prioritization Frameworks (9)
Decision-Making Frameworks (4)
Stakeholder Management Frameworks (2)
Product Metrics Frameworks (3)
Strategy Frameworks (7)
Strategy-Related Artefacts (5)
Agile Frameworks (3)
Other frameworks (2)
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The Product Frameworks Compendium
Without further ado:
1. Prioritization Frameworks
Those 9 frameworks will allow you to prioritize your tasks, initiatives, and opportunities better. Ultimately leading to better outcomes.
a. Eisenhower Matrix
The template is handy for prioritizing your tasks.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/eisenhower-matrix/
b. Impact vs. Effort (2x2)
You can use this template for prioritizing tasks and initiatives.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/impact-effort-matrix/
c. Risk vs. Reward
This template is handy for prioritizing initiatives you want to take.
Free template (PPTX): open Google Slides
d. Opportunity Score by Dan Olsen
Use this framework to prioritize opportunities (customer problems, needs, desires). I find it much more straightforward and intuitive than the one from Jobs-to-be-Done. And I verified that where it matters the most, it gives similar results:
My introduction (PDF): open the PDF
The official Dan Olsen's template (PPTX): open Google Slides
e. Kano Model
Kano Model was initially developed to prioritize features. You might find it helpful. But remember, you want to prioritize problems, not solutions.
Explanation: https://www.productplan.com/glossary/kano-model/
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/kano-model/
f. Weighted Decision
This framework is helpful when prioritizing any decision with many factors to consider. Each factor has an assigned weight. It’s self-explanatory:
Free template with formulas (XLSX): open Google Sheets
g. (R)ICE Framework
ICE Framework is useful for prioritizing initiatives and ideas. I like it because it considers not only the value but also risk and economic factors.
ICE stands for:
Impact
Confidence
Ease
Another version, RICE, splits Impact into two separate factors: Reach and Impact.
Free templates:
ICE template (XLSX): open Google Sheets
RICE template (XLSX): open Google Sheets
h. MoSCoW Method
MoSCoW involves dividing requirements into 4 separate buckets:
Must-have
Should-have
Could-have
Won't-have
You don’t need a template, as this is just an additional property you can add to your backlog (e.g., in Jira).
I don’t really like it because the MoSCoW is commonly used in project management when those priorities are set by the customer. As you know, empowered product teams get goals and are held accountable for the outcomes, not the features.
Also, you should never allow your customers to design solutions. See my another article:
i. Weighted Shortest Job First (WSJF)
WSJF is part of SAFe, a methodology that claims to be Agile and uses many “modern terms,” but deep inside, can’t stop obsessing over controlling people and implementing heavy processes.
Being part of SAFe is not the only issue with WSJF. Look at this formula:
WSJF = (user/business value + time criticality + (risk reduction (RR) + opportunity enablement (OE) value) ) / job size
You will do much better using Dan Olsen’s Opportunity Score formula and then accounting for the estimated cost of implementing the Idea.
Use logic if needed (e.g., a black swan event) instead of sticking to that complex formula and speculating about the other parameters.
2. Decision-Making Frameworks
I excluded the previously mentioned prioritization frameworks. Those 3 frameworks will help you plan and make better decisions.
a. Decision Tree
A decision tree is a simple visual representation of possible choices, outcomes, and probabilities. It helps you to structure your thinking and plan a few steps ahead.
You can do it with any mind-mapping tool or even with a pen and paper.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/decision-tree/
b. PDCA, Build-Measure-Learn, Probe-Sense-Respond
There are many similar cycles you can use in complex environments where more is unknown than known, like in product management:
Probe-Sense-Respond (Cynefin Framework)
Plan, Do, Check (Study), Act (Lean)
Build-Measure-Learn (Lean Startup)
What they all have in common is how they deal with complexity:
Ideate and plan your next action
Make a small step / run an experiment
Collect the data / measure the outcomes
Analyze the results (validated learning)
There is no template, as the framework describes an iterative way of learning.
c. Six Thinking Hats
The Six Thinking Hats is a technique developed by Edward de Bono. Each colored hat represents a specific type of thinking (e.g., rational, emotional), which allows you to analyze a problem from different perspectives.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/six-thinking-hats/
d. Cynefin Framework
The Cynefin framework, created by Dave Snowden, is a tool to help you understand and navigate complex situations by categorizing them into five domains.
While product management typically lies in the complex domain, you might find the framework extremely useful in many situations.
An inspiring video explanation:
A great addition. When can you trust your experience? See Thinking, Fast and Slow with Daniel Kahneman:
3. Stakeholder Management Frameworks
Working with stakeholders may be like entering the lion's cage.
You need to be careful. How to avoid mistakes?
a. Stakeholders Map
It's worth realizing that not every stakeholder is equally important. As a PM, you must identify the stakeholders who have to say in the direction of the product and ensure they are included.
One of my favorite techniques is to put stakeholders on an "Influence 2x2" map. There are two dimensions: Influence (power) and Interest (availability).
There are 4 possibilities:
Low influence, Low interest: You can spend less time on them. They won't bite you. These can be, for example, other department members. Monitor them, provide basic information, and keep them happy enough.
High influence, Low interest: These can be, for example, board members. They can easily become detractors, so keep them informed and satisfied.
Low influence, High interest: Keep them informed and consider putting them to work. In many cases, they will be happy to help you achieve your goals.
High influence, High interest: You must actively engage with them. Manage them closely so that they are well-informed and satisfied.
Free template (PDF): open the PDF
b. RACI Matrix
The RACI matrix is a chart used to assign responsibilities for every task, milestone, or key decision involved in a project. It outlines:
Which people are Accountable
Who needs to be Consulted
Who needs to be Informed
RACI matrix is commonly used in project management, together with a set of rigid processes and procedures.
It’s good to know it.
But hopefully, you will never have to fill in those tables.
4. Product Metrics Frameworks
This topic is too extensive. I’ll cover it separately. Here are 3 product metrics frameworks and a set of recommended resources:
a. Pirate Metrics (AARRR)
What I like about this framework is that it’s universal. You can apply it to any business.
More information: https://www.productplan.com/glossary/aarrr-framework/
b. HEART Framework
HEART stands for:
Happiness
Engagement
Adoption
Retention
Task success
The framework emphasizes the importance of user-centered metrics, for which you can identify Goals (your objectives) and Signals (leading indicators of your progress).
More information: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/pawel-huryn_product-activity-6952654072315293696-uJq0
c. North Star Framework
North Star Framework is a model that involves identifying:
The most crucial metric - North Star Metric
Input metrics: 3-5 complementary factors that affect North Star Metric
A North Star Metric should (checklist):
Lead to revenue
Reflect customer value
Measures progress
More information:
https://cxl.com/blog/north-star-metric/ (ignore the OMTM definition, which is incorrect)
5. Strategy Frameworks
Those 7 frameworks might help you zoom out and look at your product and the competitive environment from different perspectives.
a. SWOT Analysis
SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis is a framework used to evaluate a company's competitive position.
That's an essential strategic tool. In my opinion, every product manager should be able to answer those questions without hesitation.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/swot-analysis/
YouTube video:
b. PESTEL Analysis
PESTEL analysis is commonly used to evaluate the business environment in which your company operates.
The acronym stands for Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal factors.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/pestle-analysis/
YouTube video:
c. Porter’s Five Forces
Porter's Five Forces model identifies and analyzes five competitive forces that shape every industry. It helps determine an industry's weaknesses and strengths (it is often used before making an investment decision):
Rivalry among existing competitors
Threat of new entrants
Threat of substitutes
Power of buyers
Power of suppliers
Every industry is characterized by different average ROI. It doesn't change much over time (e.g., flight lines are one of the worst industries to be in).
Free template (PPTX): open Google Slides
YouTube video:
d. Value Chain Analysis
One of the 5 elements of a strong strategy, as defined by Michael Porter, is a unique Value Chain.
Value Chain Analysis is an analytical framework that will help you identify activities to create value and competitive advantage.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/value-chain/
YouTube video:
e. Ansoff Matrix
The Ansoff Matrix, often called the Product/Market Expansion Grid, is a 2x2 framework used to help plan and evaluate growth initiatives.
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/ansoff-matrix/
YouTube video:
f. McKinsey 7S Framework
McKinsey 7S framework illustrates how different elements of businesses can be aligned to increase effectiveness.
Hard Elements:
Strategy
Structure
Systems
Soft Elements:
Shared Values
Skills
Style
Staff
It works well with Michael Porter's Fit test.
Template: Notion template for premium subscribers is coming soon.
YouTube video:
g. 4P Marketing Mix
The 4P Marketing Mix is a classical way of thinking about how you can sell a product. It includes four different elements:
Product: What is the thing that you are selling? What problems does it solve? What makes it unique?
Price: How much will you charge for your product? In particular, what is the relative price?
Place: Where will you sell your product? Will it be available in certain regions or countries? What are the constraints?
Promotion: How will you get the word know about your product? Will you use paid ads, social media, SEO, or word of mouth?
Free template (Miro): https://miro.com/templates/4p-marketing-mix/
6. Strategy-Related Artefacts
I wouldn’t classify all of them as frameworks. Most of them are extremely useful.
a. Strategy Canvas (Blue Ocean Strategy)
Blue Ocean Strategy might be a popular book. But it confuses strategy with the value proposition. It also conflicts with what Michael Porter and Roger Martin define as a strategy.
More information: https://www.blueoceanstrategy.com/tools/strategy-canvas/
Also, see Benchmarking is for Losers by Roger Martin
b. Business Model Canvas
Introduced in the Business Model Generation. You can use it to visualize, evaluate, and communicate your business model.
Free template (PPTX): open Google Slides
Explanation:
c. Value Proposition Canvas
The Value Proposition Canvas is a complementary tool to the Business Model Canvas. It was described in the Value Proposition Design and can help you understand and design your value proposition.
Free template (PDF): open PDF (Strategizer)
Explanation:
d. Lean Canvas
The Lean Canvas has a similar structure to the Business Model Canvas. But it places a greater emphasis on the customer and the problem that the business is solving.
Free template (PPTX): open Google Slides
Explanation:
e. Product Strategy Canvas
I could not find a single Product Strategy Canvas I could recommend. So a few months ago, I created a new one. My free article + template:
7. Agile Frameworks
I don’t want you to get bored with Agile frameworks. So here are just 3 you need to know as a product manager.
a. Scrum Framework
Not many know I’m PSPO III, the highest Scrum.org certification for Product Owners. Currently, there are only ~450 people worldwide holding this title.
I feel I invested too much time in Scrum.
This is not what PMs should spend their time on.
But if you work in Scrum and want to understand it better, here is a good video:
b. Kanban
Kanban focuses on improving the flow of value by:
Visualizing the current state (“Kanban Board”)
Limiting work in progress
Analyzing cycle time, lead time, and throughput
A great set of resources: https://kanbanize.com/kanban-resources/getting-started/what-is-kanban
You can also use it with Scrum. Here is everything you need to know: https://www.scrum.org/scrum-kanban
c. [Avoid] SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework)
If SAFe is, as it claims, an agile framework, I’m an elephant.
I expressed my opinion about SAFe in the past, for example, on LinkedIn.
The same did Marty Cagan in this blog post.
You can also see The SAFe Delusion, Information for decision-makers considering the SAFe framework: https://safedelusion.com/
Take my advice and avoid it like a fire.
8. Other frameworks
The last two frameworks without a clear category:
a. OKR (Objectives and key results)
OKR might be considered a goal-setting framework. Here is my piece of advice on how to use them effectively, inspired by Radical Focus by Christina Wodtke:
b. Product Discovery frameworks and techniques
Many things related to Product Discovery (templates, instructions, tips, recommended resources, and books) are described in my Continious Product Discovery Template: https://huryn.substack.com/p/templates
On top of that, if you are interested in studying JTBD in-depth, the Jobs-to-be-Done book is free (audio + PDF): https://jobs-to-be-done-book.com/
Conclusions
Product frameworks might be extremely helpful. They will help you to look at problems from different perspectives, guide your actions, and ultimately, make better decisions.
At the same time, don’t expect a single method, like an equation, will give you an answer in every situation.
Prepare for the unknown. Sometimes, you have to take action without having all the information. Trust your guts. And improvise.
Don’t be afraid to break the rules when it feels right.
To me, that’s the most exciting part.
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Take care, Paweł
Great Article, have you ever tried Prioritization matrix with effort and customer segment impacted. In a single matrix all quarterly initiatives can be showcased. I am trying to work on one.
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