If leading Netflix Smart TV, would you add more Netflix TV-specific features that increase app size, or maintain unified experience?

Introduction

The trade-off we're examining today is whether to add more Netflix TV-specific features that increase app size or maintain a unified experience across devices for Netflix Smart TV. This scenario touches on the core of product strategy, balancing user experience with platform-specific optimizations. I'll analyze this trade-off through multiple lenses, considering user needs, technical constraints, and business objectives.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Context: I'm assuming this is a current strategic decision for Netflix. Is this correct, or are we considering a hypothetical future scenario?

Why it matters: Helps frame the urgency and available resources for the decision. Expected answer: Current strategic decision. Impact on approach: Would prioritize immediate action and leverage existing data.

• Business Context: How does Smart TV viewership contribute to Netflix's overall engagement and revenue compared to other devices?

Why it matters: Helps quantify the potential impact of Smart TV optimizations. Expected answer: Significant portion, growing faster than mobile. Impact on approach: Would justify more investment in Smart TV features.

• User Impact: What are the key user segments for Netflix Smart TV, and how do their behaviors differ from other device users?

Why it matters: Identifies specific needs that TV-specific features might address. Expected answer: Longer viewing sessions, more shared viewing experiences. Impact on approach: Would focus on features enhancing group viewing and content discovery.

• Technical: What are the current app size limitations across different Smart TV platforms?

Why it matters: Defines the technical constraints we're working within. Expected answer: Varies by platform, but generally limited compared to mobile/web. Impact on approach: Would necessitate careful prioritization of new features.

• Resource: What's our current team capacity for developing and maintaining platform-specific features?

Why it matters: Determines feasibility of supporting divergent experiences. Expected answer: Limited, focused on cross-platform development. Impact on approach: Might lean towards unified experience to maximize efficiency.