As PM for Amazon Drive, would you implement more Amazon Drive sharing features with increased complexity, or maintain simple storage focus?

Introduction

The trade-off we're considering for Amazon Drive is whether to implement more sharing features with increased complexity or maintain a simple storage focus. This decision involves balancing user needs, product differentiation, and resource allocation. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining the product context, potential impacts, key metrics, and experimental approaches to inform a strategic recommendation.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Based on Amazon's customer-centric approach, I'm thinking user needs are driving this consideration. Could you share any recent user feedback or requests related to sharing features?

Why it matters: Helps prioritize features based on user demand Expected answer: Increased requests for collaborative features Impact on approach: Would justify investing in sharing capabilities

• Considering Amazon's ecosystem, I'm assuming Drive integrates with other Amazon services. How critical is Drive's role in the broader Amazon product strategy?

Why it matters: Determines the strategic importance of Drive enhancements Expected answer: Moderate importance, supporting other key services Impact on approach: Would influence resource allocation and integration priorities

• Looking at the competitive landscape, I'm thinking about differentiation. How does Amazon Drive currently compare to major competitors in terms of features and market share?

Why it matters: Identifies opportunities for competitive advantage Expected answer: Lagging in advanced features but strong in basic storage Impact on approach: Would guide feature prioritization and positioning strategy

• Considering technical constraints, I'm curious about the current architecture. What's our capability to implement complex sharing features without significant backend changes?

Why it matters: Assesses feasibility and resource requirements Expected answer: Moderate flexibility, some changes required Impact on approach: Would influence timeline and scope of potential features

• Thinking about our revenue model, I'm wondering how Drive contributes. Is the focus on direct revenue from storage upgrades or indirect value through ecosystem engagement?

Why it matters: Aligns product strategy with business goals Expected answer: Mix of direct revenue and ecosystem value Impact on approach: Would guide feature selection to balance both objectives