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working-backwards

Guides product development from customer problems to ideal end states via press releases and FAQs.

2|Updated Feb 9, 2026
Search Tags:#product strategy#product vision#customer problem#press release#working backwards
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jasonmeans/pm-skills --skill working-backwards-jasonmeans
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: working-backwards
Source: https://github.com/jasonmeans/pm-skills/tree/main/.claude/skills/lenny-podcast/lenny-working-backwards
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jasonmeans/pm-skills --skill working-backwards-jasonmeans

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps users apply the working backwards methodology to define new products, write PRs and FAQs, and plan from a future state, ensuring clarity in product value proposition and strategic alignment.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Customer-Centric Approach: Start with the customer problem, avoiding retrofitting a problem to a pre-existing solution.
  • Press Release Drafting: Guide through creating a mock press release for the finished product, focusing on customer value.
  • FAQ Development: Anticipate and answer internal questions about feasibility and strategy fit.
  • Three Criteria Evaluation: Assess the idea's scale, strategic fit, and execution plan.
  • Ideal State Definition: Imagine the 'castle on the hill' and work backward to build from today's reality.

Quick Start

Run the 'working-backwards' skill to start defining a new product's value proposition.

Frequently Asked Questions about working-backwards

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is the working backwards methodology for product strategy?▼

The working backwards methodology starts with a customer problem and defines an ideal end state before building anything. It involves drafting press releases and FAQs to ensure clarity in product value proposition and strategic alignment.

How do I write a press release for a new product idea?▼

To write a press release for a new product, start by focusing on the customer value and the specific problem being solved. This Skill guides you through drafting a mock press release from a future state to clarify the product vision.

Can I use working backwards to evaluate product feasibility?▼

Yes, working backwards evaluates product feasibility by assessing ideas against three specific criteria: scale, strategic fit, and execution plan. This ensures the proposed product aligns with business strategy.

How do I develop an FAQ for internal product strategy questions?▼

Developing an internal FAQ involves anticipating questions about feasibility and strategy fit for your product idea. This Skill helps you create these FAQs to address internal concerns during the working backwards process.

What is the best way to define a product vision from a customer problem?▼

The best way to define a product vision from a customer problem is to imagine the ideal end state, or 'castle on the hill', and work backward to current reality. This ensures a customer-centric approach without retrofitting solutions.

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