As the PM for Google Docs, would you implement more real-time collaboration features with higher latency, or maintain current features with lower latency?

Introduction

The trade-off we're examining today is whether to implement more real-time collaboration features with higher latency in Google Docs, or maintain current features with lower latency. This scenario touches on the core functionality of Google Docs as a collaborative document editing tool, balancing user experience with feature richness. I'll analyze this trade-off through several lenses, including user impact, technical feasibility, and business alignment.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Based on recent user feedback, I'm thinking latency might be a pain point for some users. Could you share any data on current user satisfaction with Google Docs' responsiveness?

Why it matters: Helps quantify the potential impact of increasing latency Expected answer: Moderate satisfaction, with some complaints about lag during peak usage Impact on approach: Would influence the acceptable threshold for latency increase

• Considering our product roadmap, I'm assuming these new collaboration features are tied to strategic goals. How do they align with our broader vision for Google Workspace?

Why it matters: Ensures the trade-off decision supports long-term product strategy Expected answer: Features are part of a push towards more seamless real-time collaboration Impact on approach: Would justify accepting some latency increase for strategic alignment

• From a technical perspective, I'm thinking about our current infrastructure. What's our current average latency, and what's the projected increase with new features?

Why it matters: Helps quantify the trade-off and assess technical feasibility Expected answer: Current latency around 100ms, projected to increase to 150-200ms Impact on approach: Would inform the acceptable latency threshold and guide technical solutions

• Looking at our user base, I'm curious about the distribution of use cases. What percentage of our users regularly use collaborative features versus solo document editing?

Why it matters: Helps balance the impact on different user segments Expected answer: 60% collaborative, 40% solo use Impact on approach: Would influence the weight given to collaboration improvements versus maintaining speed for all users