Should Skyscanner prioritize showing more flight options or faster search results?

Introduction

The trade-off between showing more flight options and faster search results is a critical decision for Skyscanner. This scenario touches on the core functionality of the platform and directly impacts user experience. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining user needs, technical considerations, and business implications to provide a strategic recommendation.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Context: I'm assuming this is a global consideration for Skyscanner. Is this trade-off being considered for all markets or specific regions?

Why it matters: Different markets may have varying user preferences and competitive landscapes. Expected answer: Global consideration Impact: Would need to account for diverse user needs and technical infrastructure across regions.

• Business Context: Based on Skyscanner's business model, I believe this could impact conversion rates and partner relationships. How does this align with our current revenue streams and strategic priorities?

Why it matters: Helps prioritize the solution against business objectives Expected answer: Critical for improving conversion rates and maintaining partner satisfaction Impact: Would influence the balance between user experience and comprehensive flight options

• User Impact: I'm thinking about different user segments, such as leisure vs. business travelers. Can you share any insights on how these segments currently interact with search results?

Why it matters: Different user types may have varying preferences for speed vs. options Expected answer: Leisure travelers tend to explore more options, while business travelers prioritize speed Impact: Might lead to a segmented approach in the solution

• Technical: Considering the scale of Skyscanner's operations, I'm curious about our current search infrastructure. What are the main bottlenecks in our search process?

Why it matters: Identifies potential areas for optimization beyond just limiting results Expected answer: Data aggregation from multiple sources is a significant bottleneck Impact: Could explore technical solutions to improve speed without sacrificing options

• Resource: Given the potential impact of this decision, I'm wondering about our capacity to implement changes. What resources do we have available for this project in terms of engineering and product teams?

Why it matters: Determines the scope and timeline of potential solutions Expected answer: Limited resources due to other ongoing projects Impact: Might need to prioritize quick wins or phase the implementation