Understanding tech basics for non-technical product managers

Product managers (PMs) need to have a fundamental understanding of technology to effectively communicate with tech teams, manage stakeholder expectations, and keep abreast of industry trends. This knowledge helps PMs understand technical feasibility, reduce reliance on tech teams for basic issues, and foster better empathy with engineering teams. In product-led companies, tech teams are often organized into pods with various roles such as frontend, backend, full-stack engineers, and quality assurance testers. The article emphasizes the importance of different types of meetings, like backlog grooming and sprint planning, to align tech and product goals. It also highlights the significance of understanding tech jargon such as APIs, microservices, and regression testing, and encourages PMs to utilize resources like social media, industry publications, and experienced colleagues to enhance their tech knowledge. Additionally, staying updated with tech trends is crucial for PMs to successfully navigate digital disruptions and develop valuable features, ultimately leading to better product and design decisions.