How would you improve Facebook Watch?

Introduction

Facebook Watch, launched in 2017, is a video-on-demand service integrated within the Facebook platform. As we consider how to improve this product, we'll need to analyze its current state, user behavior, and market position. I'll structure my approach by first clarifying key aspects of the product, then segmenting users, identifying pain points, generating solutions, and finally evaluating and prioritizing these solutions.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions

• Looking at Facebook Watch's position in the video streaming market, I'm curious about its primary value proposition. Could you share more about how users typically engage with Watch compared to other video platforms like YouTube or TikTok?

Why it matters: This helps us understand our unique selling point and areas where we might be falling short. Expected answer: Users primarily engage with Watch for longer-form content from creators they follow on Facebook. Impact on approach: If this is the case, we might focus on improving content discovery and creator tools.

• Considering the integration of Watch within the broader Facebook ecosystem, I'm wondering about cross-platform usage patterns. How do users typically transition between regular Facebook features and Watch?

Why it matters: This informs whether we need to focus on improving integration or creating a more distinct experience. Expected answer: Many users discover Watch content through their news feed, but engagement within Watch itself is lower than desired. Impact on approach: We might need to focus on improving the standalone Watch experience and its discoverability.

• Given Facebook's vast user data, I'm interested in understanding the key metrics driving this improvement initiative. What are the primary KPIs we're looking to impact, and how have they been trending?

Why it matters: This helps us align our improvements with broader business objectives. Expected answer: We're primarily focused on increasing watch time and daily active users, both of which have been plateauing recently. Impact on approach: We'd prioritize features that encourage longer viewing sessions and more frequent returns to the platform.

• Considering the competitive landscape, I'm curious about how Watch is positioned against emerging short-form video platforms. Are we seeing any shift in user preferences or behavior that's impacting Watch?

Why it matters: This helps us understand if we need to adapt our content strategy or user experience. Expected answer: We've noticed some user attention shifting to short-form content, but our strength remains in longer-form videos. Impact on approach: We might consider introducing features that better integrate short-form and long-form content experiences.