Launch With Confidence

Centercode

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Launch With Confidence

Launch With Confidence is your go-to podcast where curiosity meets the thrill of building and launching a tech product. It's a vibrant hub for inquisitive minds in tech eager to peek behind the curtain of product development. Each episode is a friendly chat with the trailblazers unpacking the secrets to a bulletproof go-to-market strategy and the excitement of nailing that product launch.

OCT 16

Building Beta Programs That Go Beyond Bugs with Keith McDonald

Quick note – The video files didn’t quite cooperate for this episode, so enjoy the audio-only experience. Keith’s wisdom still shines, so don't sleep on this one! In this episode, Chris Rader sits down with Keith McDonald, Beta Testing Lead at Square, to discuss the art of building beta programs that go beyond just finding bugs. Keith’s career spans more than a decade, including significant roles at Sonos, where he led beta testing for flagship products like the Playbar. Now at Square, he continues to innovate in beta program management, focusing on improving customer experiences and product quality through deep user feedback and strategic testing. Keith shares his journey, the lessons learned along the way, and his thoughts on building high-performing teams with a blend of technical expertise and customer empathy. He also provides insights into the future of beta testing, including how AI could play a role in enhancing, but not replacing, the human touch in testing. Tune in to hear how beta programs can transform product development and why a focus on user experience is key to success. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ (0:00) - Intro (3:26) - Early challenges in testing at Sonos, launching the Playbar and other hardware products. (10:21) - Keith’s transition to Square: Managing beta programs for hardware teams. (14:10) - Building a beta testing team that balances technical and customer-focused skills. (19:44) - The importance of user feedback and its role in shaping products. (28:41) - Going beyond bugs: How to focus on enhancing user experience in beta programs. (34:14) - Keith’s thoughts on AI’s role in the future of beta testing. (40:00) - Rapid-fire questions

43 min
AUG 30

Elevating Beta Testing By Integrating AI with Jacob Christensen

In this insightful episode of Launch With Confidence, we sit down with Jacob Faarkrog Christensen, the Customer Validation Lead at Bang & Olufsen, to explore the evolving role of AI in beta testing and product development. Jacob shares his journey of implementing AI models into their beta programs, which has significantly improved how they collect and analyze feedback. He delves into the challenges of balancing automation with the need for human interaction, ensuring that testers feel engaged and valued throughout the process. Whether you're interested in the technical aspects of AI or the strategic decisions behind product testing, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how Bang & Olufsen is staying ahead in the competitive high-end audio market. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ (00:00) - Intro (01:13) - Jacob covers his role at Bang & Olufsen, providing an overview of their beta testing program (02:22) - How beta testing influences product launches and shapes customer-focused development (05:29) - Including existing customers versus new potential customers in beta tests (11:08) - AI's impact on removing friction in the beta process, including log analysis and bug tracking (14:28) - How AI enhances the accuracy of feedback by correcting errors and standardizing reports (20:18) - Jacob discusses how AI assists in managing large-scale beta tests with hundreds of participants (30:10) - Balancing AI and human interaction to maintain engagement and ensure meaningful tester experiences (40:01) - The future of AI in beta testing, including automated insights and dependency analysis for bug fixes (42:43) - Rapid-fire questions

53 min
JUL 30

Transforming Support with Beta Feedback with Danielle Prince

On this episode of Launch With Confidence, we dive into the world of smart home products with Danielle Prince, Beta Coordinator at Wyze Labs. Danielle shares her journey from a support agent to leading Wyze’s innovative beta program, detailing the unique strategies and methodologies that drive their success. She explains how Wyze transitioned from decentralized social media-based testing to a structured platform, ensuring comprehensive feedback and resource optimization. Danielle also highlights the importance of user feedback and the integration of support teams in beta testing. Learn about Wyze's SMART approach to beta testing, which ensures their tests achieve meaningful results for the product team. This episode offers valuable insights into maximizing beta test outcomes, improving product development, and enhancing customer support. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ (0:00) — Intro (3:40) — Danielle shares her background and role at Wyze. (4:01) — Insight into Wyze's beta program model and its evolution. (5:01) — Discussing the SMART approach to beta testing. (7:20) — The role of the Wizard buddies and support integration. (8:29) — How product managers and support teams handle feedback. (10:44) — Transition from social media-based testing to structured beta programs. (13:12) — Issues with decentralized feedback and the benefits of a standardized testing platform. (16:29) — How Wyze uses beta test results to improve products and support resources. (20:40) —The importance of user feedback and maintaining positive tester relationships. (22:01) — Rapid Fire Questions

23 min
JUL 3

Why Empathy Matters in Beta with Dylan LeMay

Ever wondered how the tech behind baby monitors gets perfected? On this episode of Launch With Confidence, we’re joined by Dylan LeMay, Beta Program Manager at Nanit, who turns real-world chaos into irrefutable insights. As a new dad himself, he blends personal experience with professional expertise to ensure Nanit’s smart baby monitors excel in diverse environments. In this insightful conversation, Dylan reveals the fascinating behind-the-scenes of beta testing in real homes, dealing with everything from varying crib setups to diverse environmental factors. He shares how his personal journey into parenthood has enriched his professional approach, bringing a deeper level of empathy and understanding to his role. Tune in to hear about the trials and triumphs of refining cutting-edge baby tech, and gain invaluable insights into how meticulous testing can lead to products that parents trust and love. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ (0:00) - Intro (2:00) - Discussing the significance of testing in diverse environments. (4:38) - Challenges faced when testing products for babies in different settings. (7:19) - The importance of beta testing in diverse environments and situations. (10:41) - Balancing technical issues and user experiences in beta testing. (13:09) - How test data makes its way back into product development (14:48) - Recruiting for time-sensitive products and how automation helps keep things on track. (18:41) - The impact of empathy on beta testing and understanding user pain points. (23:10) - Collaborative efforts between beta testing and other departments. (30:58) - Growing a beta program (41:07) - Lightning round, rapid fire Q&A

47 min
JUN 22

PM Learnings From Previous Roles with Raiana Zaman

Dive into the intricate world of digital product management with Raiana Zaman, Senior Product Owner/Analyst at State Employees Credit Union in North Carolina. Transitioning from a developer to a product management role, Raiana brings a unique perspective to the table, bridging the gap between technical execution and strategic product vision. This episode explores Raiana's journey, highlighting the skills and mindset shifts essential for navigating the dynamic landscape of product development in the finance sector. Discover the importance of customer feedback, the art of balancing stakeholder interests, and the crucial role of curiosity and problem-solving in crafting digital products that resonate with users and drive business success. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ (0:00) - Intro. (2:14) - How development experience benefits her current role. (4:26) - Key skills for moving into product management. (7:00) - The synergy between product marketing and management. (9:27) - Early user involvement in development for better product fit. (13:29) - Prioritizing product quality over strict deadlines. (16:38) - Using user feedback in product betas for refinement. (21:24) - Raiana shares quick insights and personal preferences.

25 min
MAY 31

Learning Over Knowing in Product with Jalen McGee

In this episode of Launch With Confidence, we sit down with Jalen McGee, a Product Manager for Microsoft Azure Arc. Jalen shares his journey from internships to product management, offering insights into the skills needed for success and the crucial role of customer feedback in product development. Together, they explore key aspects of product management: Internship Experience: Jalen discusses how his internships at Bandwidth and Microsoft shaped his approach to product management. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the product thoroughly and prioritizing learning over simply showcasing knowledge. Skills for Product Management: The conversation highlights essential skills for product managers, including adaptability and organization. Jalen explains how context switching and balancing priorities from various stakeholders are critical for effective product management. Customer Involvement: Jalen elaborates on the vital role of customers in every phase of product development. He shares strategies for validating hypotheses through indirect testing and continuous feedback, underscoring the importance of building strong customer relationships. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ (0:00) - Intro (2:10) - The impact of internships on Jalen's approach to product management. (4:56) - Jalen's advice to his younger self about valuing learning in tech. (8:46) - Essential skills for product managers, with a focus on adaptability. (13:00) - The value of fresh perspectives from early-career PMs. (18:26) - Discussing customers' crucial role in product development and launch. (23:36) - The benefits of the energy and eagerness of early-career PMs. (27:54) - Rapid-fire questions reveal Jalen's preferences and insights into product management.

29 min
MAY 25

Practical Tips for Success in Product with Maurice Leacock

In this episode, we’re exploring the world of product management with Maurice Leacock, a seasoned Product Director and current Product Management Consultant at Carrier HVAC. Maurice brings a wealth of experience from leading tech products to market, including robot vacuums, headphones, and fitness scales. We explore the importance of frameworks in product management, the role of passion, and the critical insights gained from beta testing. In This Episode: (0:00) - Intro (1:46) - The role and impact of frameworks in product management. (5:06) - Synergies between product management and design. (7:37) - The influence of passion in product management across different cultures. (10:03) - The importance of impact and influence in product roles. (14:38) - Incremental improvement and its significance in the field. (19:59) - The essential role of customer feedback in product development. (23:43) - Insights on beta testing and its critical role in refining product-market fit. (29:55) - Knowledge from Maurice’s experiences in product management across industries. (35:29) - Lightning round, rapid fire Q&A Join us for a conversation that highlights Maurice’s professional insights and experiences, offering valuable lessons for aspiring product managers and seasoned professionals alike. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their approach to product development and achieve success in the tech world.

40 min
APR 26

Building Beta in a Robotics Company with Israel Nunez

Dive into the world of beta program management in industrial robotics on this episode of Launch With Confidence. We're joined by Israel Nunez, Beta Program Manager at Universal Robots, who has transformed their beta testing into a crucial part of product development. In This Episode: (0:00) - Intro (1:00) - The origin story of Universal Robots' beta program and its evolution. (4:20) - The motivation behind Israel's role and the inception of the beta program. (6:06) - Early challenges and growth pains of establishing the beta program. (8:36) - The importance of internal marketing and convincing stakeholders of the beta program's value. (16:16) - Tactics for showcasing the beta program's importance and ROI. (21:45) - Rapid-fire questions revealing personal insights and professional wisdom from Israel. Tune in for an insightful look at making beta testing a strategic asset in a tech-driven industry.

27 min

03/31/2023

Trailer - The Delta Huddle Podcast

Whether you call it a beta, a delta, a user acceptance test, or anything in between, the world of product testing can be daunting to navigate. That’s why Centercode launched The Delta Huddle Podcast. In the Delta Huddle Podcast, we bring thought leaders and innovative disruptors together to discuss the tools, techniques, and test processes behind making great tech products better. So whether you’re an industry expert, or just starting your testing journey, you’ll find the wisdom, experience, and best practices for making your testing program shine All here on The Delta Huddle Podcast.

S1

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1 min

5

out of 5

2 Ratings

Launch With Confidence is your go-to podcast where curiosity meets the thrill of building and launching a tech product. It's a vibrant hub for inquisitive minds in tech eager to peek behind the curtain of product development. Each episode is a friendly chat with the trailblazers unpacking the secrets to a bulletproof go-to-market strategy and the excitement of nailing that product launch.

Creator

Centercode
Years Active

2022 - 2024
Episodes

27
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Centercode
Show Website

Launch With Confidence