The Instagram Insights team is debating: should we add more export options or improve existing report features?

Introduction

The Instagram Insights team is facing a critical decision: should we enhance our export options or focus on improving existing report features? This trade-off involves balancing user needs, technical resources, and strategic priorities. I'll analyze this situation using a structured approach, considering various stakeholders and potential outcomes.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Context: I'm assuming this decision is driven by user feedback or internal analytics. Could you share more about what's prompting this discussion now?

Why it matters: Helps understand the urgency and background of the issue. Expected answer: Recent user complaints or declining engagement with current features. Impact: Would influence prioritization and solution design.

• Business Context: How does improving Insights align with our current revenue model and Q3/Q4 objectives?

Why it matters: Ensures alignment with broader business goals. Expected answer: Critical for retaining high-value advertisers and creators. Impact: Would justify more resources if directly tied to revenue.

• User Impact: Which user segments (e.g., individual creators, brands, small businesses) are most affected by current Insights limitations?

Why it matters: Helps focus improvements on highest-impact areas. Expected answer: Mid-tier creators and small businesses struggling most. Impact: Would guide feature prioritization and marketing approach.

• Technical Feasibility: What are our current technical constraints for expanding export options or enhancing report features?

Why it matters: Determines what's possible within our infrastructure. Expected answer: Legacy systems limiting some export formats, API capacity concerns. Impact: Might shift focus to more feasible improvements.

• Resource Allocation: How is our product and engineering team currently staffed for Insights-related work?

Why it matters: Helps understand our capacity for implementing changes. Expected answer: Small dedicated team with potential for flex resources. Impact: Could influence timeline and scope of improvements.