For FreshBooks's time tracking feature, should we emphasize integration with more third-party tools or improve the accuracy and granularity of the core tracking functionality?

Introduction

The trade-off we're considering for FreshBooks's time tracking feature is whether to emphasize integration with more third-party tools or improve the accuracy and granularity of the core tracking functionality. This decision is crucial for FreshBooks's product strategy and user experience. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining the product context, potential impacts, key metrics, and experimental approaches to guide our decision-making process.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Based on our current market position, I'm thinking this decision might be driven by competitive pressure. Could you share more about how our time tracking feature compares to our main competitors?

Why it matters: Helps prioritize features based on market differentiation Expected answer: We're lagging in integrations but leading in core accuracy Impact on approach: Would influence whether we focus on catching up or doubling down on our strengths

• Considering our user base, I'm assuming we have a mix of freelancers and small businesses. What's the current split between these segments, and how does their usage of time tracking differ?

Why it matters: Different user segments may prioritize integrations vs. accuracy differently Expected answer: 60% freelancers, 40% small businesses; freelancers use more integrations Impact on approach: Would help tailor the solution to the most valuable or growing segment

• From a technical standpoint, I'm curious about our current architecture. How modular is our time tracking feature, and what's our capacity for parallel development on both integrations and core functionality?

Why it matters: Determines if we can pursue both options simultaneously or need to choose Expected answer: Modular architecture, but limited developer resources Impact on approach: Might lead to a phased approach rather than an either/or decision

• Regarding our product roadmap, where does this decision fit in terms of priority? Are there any upcoming releases or strategic initiatives that this needs to align with?

Why it matters: Helps contextualize the decision within broader product strategy Expected answer: High priority, aiming for major update in Q3 Impact on approach: Would influence timeline and resource allocation for implementation