Communication Key To Launch Success

Telltale Signs That Your Product Launch Will Fail

Many organizations do not have the skills or experience to launch a new product. One telltale sign that launches will strikeout is a lack of consensus on launch goals. Neil Baron, a guest blogger at Fast Company, gives this real-life example:

• A profitable, 15 year old software company plans to launch a new version of its product. During a meeting with the CEO, VP of Marketing and Senior VP of Operations, the CEO shares his thoughts on the launch, and the two executives take notes because they are hearing the goals for the first time.

In order to avoid, mission critical launch mistakes, you need to align “cross functional alignment” writes Baron. To make sure your launch goals are on solid ground, you should:

• Assign a launch manager to orchestrate all aspects of the launch.

• Make sure that manager has the proper skills and experience.

• Write down the launch goals and review them often. Track subgoals as well.

• Use a common language for launch. The product manager should make sure all terms are used consistently.

Aligning expectations and communicating goals will help you launch a great product that is positioned for success.