The Amazon Prime Gaming team needs to decide: should we expand Prime Gaming streaming features or focus on downloads?

Introduction

The Amazon Prime Gaming team is facing a critical decision: should we expand Prime Gaming streaming features or focus on downloads? This trade-off involves balancing the growth potential of streaming against the established download model. I'll analyze this decision through the lens of user experience, technical feasibility, business impact, and strategic alignment.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Context: I'm thinking about the current market landscape for gaming. Could you provide more context on our market share and primary competitors in both streaming and downloads?

Why it matters: Helps understand our competitive positioning Expected answer: We're a strong player in downloads but emerging in streaming Impact: Would influence whether we should double down on our strength or invest in growth areas

• Business Context: Based on our revenue model, I assume Prime Gaming is primarily a value-add for Prime subscriptions. Is this correct, or does it have its own revenue targets?

Why it matters: Clarifies the primary business objectives Expected answer: Primarily a value-add, but with growing importance Impact: Would affect whether we prioritize user engagement or direct monetization

• User Impact: I'm curious about our user segments. What percentage of our users primarily stream vs. download, and what's the overlap?

Why it matters: Identifies which user groups might be most affected Expected answer: Majority still download, but streaming is growing rapidly Impact: Would guide which features to prioritize for different user segments

• Technical: Regarding our current infrastructure, how scalable is our streaming technology compared to our download capabilities?

Why it matters: Assesses the feasibility of expansion in either direction Expected answer: Download infrastructure is mature, streaming needs investment Impact: Would influence the timeline and resource allocation for either option

• Resource: Can you give me an idea of our team's current expertise split between streaming and download technologies?

Why it matters: Determines our ability to execute on either option Expected answer: Stronger in downloads, but building streaming capabilities Impact: Might necessitate hiring or training for the chosen direction