You are the product manager of a pick food delivery app of your choice in March 2020. How would you respond to the COVID situation?

Introduction

As the product manager of a food delivery app in March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic presents a critical challenge that requires immediate action. The situation demands a delicate balance between ensuring the safety of our users, delivery partners, and restaurant staff while meeting the increased demand for food delivery services. I'll outline my approach to addressing this complex scenario, focusing on key trade-offs and strategic decisions.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• What is our current market share and financial position?

• Why it matters: Understanding our resources and market position will inform our ability to implement changes and take risks.
• Hypothetical answer: We're the second-largest player with 30% market share and stable financials.
• Impact: This suggests we have resources to invest in new initiatives but also face strong competition.

• What percentage of our restaurants are small, independent businesses vs. large chains?

• Why it matters: Different types of restaurants may have varying abilities to adapt to new safety protocols.
• Hypothetical answer: 60% independent restaurants, 40% chains.
• Impact: We'll need to provide more support to independent restaurants to maintain our selection.

• What is our current delivery workforce model (employees, contractors, or mixed)?

• Why it matters: This affects our ability to implement and enforce new safety measures.
• Hypothetical answer: Primarily contractor-based model.
• Impact: We'll need to focus on incentives and clear communication rather than direct mandates.

• What is our app's current tech stack and how quickly can we implement new features?

• Why it matters: This determines our agility in responding to the crisis with new functionality.
• Hypothetical answer: Modern stack with 2-week release cycles.
• Impact: We can rapidly iterate and test new features to address the evolving situation.

• What are the current local government regulations regarding food delivery during the pandemic?

• Why it matters: We need to ensure compliance and may need to adapt our operations.
• Hypothetical answer: Varied by location, but generally considered essential service with safety requirements.
• Impact: We'll need a flexible approach that can be tailored to different markets.