Top 3 must read books for product managers
When I do workshops, I get questions about product management books I would recommend for fellow product managers or entrepreneurs. Usually, I direct them to some product-focused blogs as I like information to be concise. It is also a lean approach to validate the content before investing your time.
Here are my top 3 books for product folks.
Book 1: The lean startup by Eric Ries
When my methods were primitive during my early product manager days, one of my colleagues recommended this book. This book changed my idea of product development altogether and it is a must-read for all product managers and entrepreneurs.
Eric Ries adapts the lean manufacturing techniques used by Japanese manufacturer Toyota to software development. The golden nuggets are examples that show how innovation happens inside enterprises, not just startups. There are many methods that you can apply immediately to your product but he also warns about the pitfalls. Beginners would find this book enlightening, but experienced folks would sense a deja vu.
Book 2: Inspired: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love by Marty Cagan
I always want to know why customers love a product and that made me follow the Silicon Valley Product Group (SVPG). Marty Cagan is the founder of SVPG.
The book focuses on the dynamics of a product team and the responsibilities of each member within and outside of a product team. If you are looking for an ideal product development process and trying to build a product-focused culture within your organization, then look no further. The profiles of PMs presented by Marty Cagan are inspiring.
Book 3: Running Lean by Ash Maurya
Product Specialist of a company recommended this book, and I tried it. I did not set any expectations as I have not heard (my bad) about the author or read any of his blogs.
This book walks you through the lean product development process step by step. It feels like a continuation of the lean startup book by Eric Ries. The author uses his product as an example and even teaches you some manners while talking to your prospective customers :)
Let me know the top 3 books you would recommend to product folks.
