In October 2026 I posted a LinkedIn‑style reflection on the Jobs‑to‑be‑Done (JTBD) framework for product managers, especially those building AI‑first products. I argue that we should think of products as hired solutions rather than static feature lists, and I outline a simple five‑question inquiry to surface the underlying job.
People don't buy products. They hire them to get a job done.
Focus on the outcome, not just the feature.
Identify the functional, emotional, and social outcomes users seek.
Help me reach my destination with confidence and minimal uncertainty.
Before adding an AI agent, chatbot, or automation, understand what job the user needs done - and whether AI is actually the right solution.
I conclude that product managers should validate the underlying user job before layering AI capabilities, ensuring the AI addition truly advances the desired outcome.
This thinking builds on my earlier notes in AI Product Management Insights.