🚀 Product management is evolving, and so are the challenges that come with it. In the latest episode of the Stragedy Podcast, we sat down with Igor Modino to discuss everything from spec writing and Agile workflows to AI-driven automation and the future of product management. Below are the key insights from our discussion, along with some takeaways that can help teams improve their product development processes.
One of the biggest misconceptions in product management is that specifications are optional. In reality, specs serve as the backbone of structured product development. While startups often move fast and rely on informal documentation, larger companies must adhere to strict processes to maintain quality and consistency. Igor highlighted the importance of tracking spec writing with KPIs—helping teams stay accountable while improving transparency.
At SwipeSpec, we’re addressing this challenge by providing an AI-powered spec writing assistant that ensures high-quality, structured documentation without adding friction to creative processes.
Many teams rely on Excel and Jira for managing product specs, but both tools have significant limitations. Excel is widely used because of its flexibility, yet it’s not designed for writing structured requirements. Jira, on the other hand, often overwhelms users with complex input fields, dropdowns, and rigid structures that stifle creativity.
The ideal solution is a tool that allows teams to brainstorm freely while ensuring structured output. SwipeSpec bridges this gap by offering a distraction-free writing environment with AI-powered structuring, making it easy to push finalized specs into tools like Jira or Trello.
The distinction between product managers, product owners, and project managers is often misunderstood. Igor broke down these roles:
In some organizations, these roles overlap, which can create confusion. Clear definitions and responsibilities are crucial for an efficient product development process. Atlassian provides excellent resources for understanding these differences.
For startups, hiring a product manager is a major decision. According to Igor, the right time to hire one is as soon as you have a product to manage. If you’re still an early-stage startup without a clear product-market fit, the CEO often takes on this role.
At SwipeSpec, we’re facing this very challenge, balancing CEO responsibilities with product development. As we scale, hiring a dedicated product manager will be crucial for maintaining focus and ensuring that product decisions align with user needs.
Traction is often misunderstood. Igor’s definition is simple: traction = recurring revenue. A freemium model with high usage but no paying customers isn’t real traction. Startups need to focus on converting users into paying customers to sustain growth.
This is especially relevant for SaaS businesses like SwipeSpec, where we’re exploring freemium models that drive value while ensuring a clear upgrade path for users. Companies like Spotify and Dropbox have mastered this approach, turning free users into loyal paying customers.
Waterfall development struggles because requirements often get lost in translation. Agile, by contrast, ensures constant feedback, allowing teams to iterate based on real-world insights.
However, documentation remains a challenge in Agile. Some teams misinterpret the Agile Manifesto’s principle of “working software over comprehensive documentation” as a reason to neglect specs altogether. The key is balance—just enough documentation to maintain clarity without slowing down development. Resources like Agile Manifesto and Document360 offer best practices for maintaining clear yet lightweight specs.
SwipeSpec supports both Agile and Waterfall teams, offering structured spec writing without sacrificing speed.
AI is transforming product management, but it has limitations. Igor emphasized two major constraints: data availability and computing power. Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT seem magical, but they rely on extensive datasets and substantial computing resources.
At SwipeSpec, we see AI as a powerful assistant, not a replacement for human expertise. Our AI helps structure specs, automate repetitive tasks, and assist in review processes—always with a human in control.
AI agents have the potential to streamline many product management tasks. Imagine an AI that can review specs, suggest improvements, and even create new documents based on prior work. However, giving AI too much control can be risky.
At SwipeSpec, we’re experimenting with AI agents that assist rather than replace human decision-making. Our goal is to ensure that AI improves efficiency while keeping product managers in control.
Product management is evolving rapidly, and teams must adapt to new tools and methodologies. Whether it’s improving spec writing, refining Agile workflows, or leveraging AI, the goal remains the same: delivering better products, faster.
If you’re struggling with spec writing, workflow automation, or product documentation, SwipeSpec can help. Check out our platform and see how it can improve your workflow.
Stay tuned for future episodes of Stragedy Podcast—and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next! 🎙️
Discover practical examples and valuable strategies from Igor and Marko’s experiences, including how carefully designed usage limits, feature caps, or trial periods can incentivize users to convert.
Igor and Marko share practical advice on converting subjective user experience goals—such as "premium feel" or "smooth interactions"—into clearly defined, measurable criteria.
Igor explains that daily scrum meetings are primarily designed for engineers and technical teams to synchronize their work and address technical challenges openly.
Igor explains that without clearly documented specifications, QA teams face the daunting task of extracting and creating tests from scattered or incomplete information.
AI agents are redefining how product teams handle specs and requirements.
Igor shares insights from his own agile practices, emphasizing the importance of preparing requirements several sprints ahead, starting from high-level Epics and progressively breaking them down into actionable user stories in tools like Jira.
Igor and Marko explore the idea of opinionated product management, where leaders push forward with a strong vision, even when data suggests otherwise.